Windows 7 guide for ex Windows XP users

You might have taken the final step of upgrading Windows XP to Windows 7. It is beyond doubt that you have taken the right decision. You might have that starting trouble but believe it or not, Windows 7 would impress you for sure. We would help you to get used to it. 

Live Taskbar  

This has witnessed several changes. It also features live previews of each window. As you would move the mouse over the preview, you would get see a temporary full size view of the window. Click preview in order to open the window.

Windows Search

Start Menu consists of a handy search bar that finds programs, Control panel and files. Now hit Windows key on the keyboard and cursor would by default go to the text field. 

Libraries

Do you have files everywhere and then put them into a single library without moving them. The by default libraries is inclusive of Documents, pictures, Music and Videos. You can create own custom libraries.   

Jump Lists

Jump lists give an easy way to check the recent files opened with a program by right-clicking on the Taskbar icon. In order to pin a file or a folder just drag it to taskbar. 

Shake, peek and Aero – Snap

Aero effects helps user to view windows side by side via snapping them right and left. It minimizes all the active windows by shaking it. It peeks at the desktop temporarily by hovering over lower right edge of Taskbar.

Windows 7 comes in 32-bit and a 64-bit version. If the hardware is not upgraded, you would have to use 32-bit version. You would not get the benefits of the 64-bit and there would be no compatibility issues. 

You can also get the Windows XP look and functionality back. You can use the Windows XP Luna theme, set up Windows 7 and set up the theme using Universal Theme Patcher, adjust Taskbar, get Classic Shell, change Start Menu style, change Start Button and customize Windows Explorer look.  

Compatible issues

Infectious software or absence of proper hardware drivers are irritating issues of upgrading to new operating system.  

Windows 7 has a wide selection of hardware drivers. If your hardware is not recognized, search the website for a Windows 7 driver. You can also depend on several third part tools. In case software does not cooperate Windows 7 has compatibility mode. Just right click program shortcut, choose properties and open Compatibility tab. You can run compatibility troubleshooter or run program in compatibility mode for Windows XP.

In case you are using Windows 7 Professional, you do not require a Windows XP license. You can install Microsoft’s Windows Virtual PC and run the XP Mode.  


Protect and Access provides useful windows 7 tips and technical support for users in their  website.