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I've just installed Windows 7 on my desktop computer and I must say I'm impressed!

I've been using Vista since early 2007 and I confess I was one of the "few" people that didn't have that much to say about it. I thought Microsoft had made a quantum leap from Windows XP, although I agree with many who say that the new interface and features wouldn't compensate for the increase of hardware necessary.

I can also relate with systems administrators who didn't quite engage with the initial Vista euphoria and decided simply to wait before deploying it on their network. Windows XP is still used on the majority of enterprise networks throughout the world. In fact, only 10% of companies use Vista today.

Why? Is it because people don't like the new interface, themes, enhanced search, sidebar with gadgets, Flip 3d, etc? I don't think so. I like it. And I also like the improvements that were made by replacing Outlook Express with Windows Mail and by adding Windows Calendar. Also, configuring a network is also very easy and intuitive. You just have to get used to the new interface and understand how the system is organized.

I've never had any complicated problems with Vista except I had to add an additional 1Gb of RAM so that it could flow properly. This was a major setback: hardware! It was just way too demanding! There have also been reports of security issues in Vista, that weren't quite solved with the Service Packs.

Two and a half years later Microsoft launches yet another OS known by the name of Windows 7 (expected official launch date is October 22nd)

Here's what I liked so far:

- Easier to install

- The interface (Aero snap, aero shake, aeropeek, windows flip)

- It's claimed to be the safest Windows ever (we'll just have to wait and see)

- It's easier to configure User Account Control (those annoying security warnings that show up every time you want to install something)

- Blu-ray native support

- Easier to organize your documents (the concept of Library has been introduced)

- New features like sticky notes, screen clipping, new calculator

- Bit Locker to go, easily encrypts your external storage device (pen drive, external hdd, etc.)

- Less harware demanding

- Windows Player 12 supports blu-ray and guess what? It also supports non-Microsoft formats such as DivX/XviD, MPEG4 (H.246) and AAC !!! Wow!!! Apple, beware!

My opinion? Microsoft finally took into account it's customer's feedback on Windows Vista and developed a new product (it may seem that it's Vista Reloaded, but there's more to it than that) that will be around for more than a few years!

Come back soon for the latest Windows 7 tips and tricks!