Eli the Computer Guy

Windows 7 is finally out!  Microsoft has finally created a new operating system that is legitimately better then the old one! I’m sure you’ve heard many techno wonks talking about how “old” Windows XP is, and that you have to upgrade to a “modern” operating system.  Some of you might be worried about continuing to use XP now that Windows 7 is out fearing that by somehow using an “old” operating system you will be out of the loop.  Put your mind at rest… If your old computer is working well for you there is no reason to upgrade yet.

Back in the day many of us were taught that major computer upgrades were required every 2-3 years just to keep up with modern living.  First you needed a 286 computer so that you could type reports.  Then you needed a 386 computer so that you could use the new fangled multi media.  Then you needed a 486 so that you could get on the Internet.  Then you needed a Pentium 2 computer because the 486 computers were too slow.  And so every 2-3 years we all diligently went to our local Circuit City and bought the latest and greatest computer. First with DOS, then with Windows 3.0, then Windows 95 and 98, hopefully we missed Windows Me, and finally years ago we settled on Windows XP. Every couple of years we got new hardware with a new operating system.

The thing is that when Microsoft created Windows XP they really did do a good job.  All the previous operating systems had major irresolvable issues the day they were put on the market.  They were the best of what was available, but from day one everyone knew that we needed something better.  Windows XP solved most of the major issues, and the issues that were left most of us have learned to work around.

Currently 80% of all computers in the world run Windows XP.  For most people Windows XP does more then what they need.  Most people have their computers setup the way they like and don’t really want to go through the aggravation of migrating to a new computer, and this is OK.  If your  computer currently does what you need it to do there is no reason to rush out and buy a new system.  Windows 7 is not going to provide you much more in the way of functionality.  It is more secure and stable, but most of benefits you receive are not ones that will really change your life.

Not only that, but you should realize that the software you already own, and the printers and scanners you use may not be compatible with Windows 7.  You may need to buy not just a new computer, but countless pieces of software and peripherals that are Windows 7 compliant.

When your computer dies or no longer lives up to your expectations by all means go out and buy a fancy new computer with Windows 7.  But please realize that for the average user a Windows XP will be more then adequate for at least another few years.

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