Windows 7, a major release of the Microsoft Windows operating system, has been released in several editions since its original release in 2009. Only Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate were widely available at retailers.[1] The other editions focus on other markets, such as the software development world or enterprise use. All editions support 32-bit IA-32 CPUs and all editions except Starter support 64-bit x64 CPUs. 64-bit installation media are not included in Home-Basic edition packages, but can be obtained separately from Windows.
According to Microsoft, the features for all editions of Windows 7 are stored on the machine, regardless of which edition is in use.[2] Users who wish to upgrade to an edition of Windows 7 with more features were able to use Windows Anytime Upgrade to purchase the upgrade and to unlock the features of those editions, until it was discontinued in 2015.[1][2][3] Microsoft announced Windows 7 pricing information for some editions on June 25, 2009, and Windows Anytime Upgrade and Family Pack pricing on July 31, 2009.[1][4][5]
Main editions
Edit
Mainstream support for all Windows 7 editions ended on January 13, 2015, and extended support ended on January 14, 2020. After that, the operating system ceased receiving further support.[6] Professional and Enterprise volume licensed editions had paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) available until at most January 10, 2023.[7] Since October 31, 2013, Windows 7 is no longer available in retail, except for remaining stocks of the preinstalled Professional edition, which was officially discontinued on October 31, 2016.[8]
- Windows 7 Starter
- Windows 7 Starter is the edition of Windows 7 that contains the fewest features. It is only available in a 32-bit version and does not include the Windows Aero theme. The desktop wallpaper and visual styles (Windows 7 Basic) are not user-changeable. In the release candidate versions of Windows 7, Microsoft intended to restrict users of this edition to running three simultaneous programs, but this limitation was dropped in the final release.[9] This edition does not support more than 2 GB of RAM.
- This edition was available pre-installed on computers, especially netbooks or Windows Tablets, through system integrators or computer manufacturers using OEM licenses.[1][10][11]
- Windows 7 Home Basic
- Windows 7 Home Basic was available in «emerging markets», in 141 countries.[12] Some Windows Aero options are excluded along with several new features.[1] This edition is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions and supports up to 8 GB of RAM. Home Basic, along with other editions sold in emerging markets, includes geographical activation restriction, which requires users to activate Windows within a certain region or country.[13]
- Windows 7 Home Premium
- This edition contains features aimed at the home market segment, such as Windows Media Center, Windows Aero and multi-touch support. It was available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.[14]
- Windows 7 Professional
- This edition is targeted towards enthusiasts, small-business users, and schools.[1] It includes all the features of Windows 7 Home Premium, and adds the ability to participate in a Windows Server domain.[1] Additional features include support for up to 192 GB of RAM (increased from 16 GB),[15] operating as a Remote Desktop server, location aware printing, backup to a network location, Encrypting File System, Presentation Mode, Software Restriction Policies (but not the extra management features of AppLocker) and Windows XP Mode.[1] It was available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.[14]
- Windows 7 Enterprise
- This edition targeted the enterprise segment of the market and was sold through volume licensing to companies which have a Software Assurance (SA) contract with Microsoft.[1] Additional features include support for Multilingual User Interface (MUI) packages, BitLocker Drive Encryption, and UNIX application support.[1] Not available through retail or OEM channels, this edition is distributed through SA.[1] As a result, it includes several SA-only benefits, including a license allowing the operating of diskless nodes (diskless PCs) and activation via Volume License Key (VLK).[16]
- Windows 7 Ultimate
- Windows 7 Ultimate contains the same features as Windows 7 Enterprise, but this edition was available to home users on an individual license basis.[1] If a Windows 7 Home Premium or Windows 7 Professional user wished to upgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate, they would be able to use Windows Anytime Upgrade to do so, for an additional fee. This service is still available for any users who wish to upgrade.[1] Unlike Windows Vista Ultimate, the Windows 7 Ultimate does not include the Windows Ultimate Extras feature or any exclusive features as Microsoft had stated.[1]
Special-purpose editions
Edit
The main editions also can take the form of one of the following special editions:
- N and KN editions
- The features in the N and KN Editions are the same as their equivalent full versions, but do not include Windows Media Player or other Windows Media-related technologies, such as Windows Media Center and Windows DVD Maker due to limitations set by the European Union and South Korea, respectively.[17] The cost of the N and KN Editions are the same as the full versions, as the Media Feature Pack for Windows 7 N or Windows 7 KN can be downloaded without charge from Microsoft.[18]
- E edition
- The features in the E edition are the same as their equivalent full versions, but does not include Internet Explorer due to limitations set by the European Union. The cost of the E edition was cheaper than the full version.[19]
- Signature Edition
- The Signature Edition of Windows 7 is a commemorative edition of Windows 7 Ultimate for those throwing a Windows 7 launch party.[20] It is functionally the same as Windows 7 Ultimate.
Upgrade editions
Edit
In-place upgrade from Windows Vista with Service Pack 1 to Windows 7 is supported if the processor architecture and the language are the same and their editions match (see below).[1][3][21] In-place upgrade is not supported for earlier versions of Windows; moving to Windows 7 on these machines requires a clean installation, i.e. removal of the old operating system, installing Windows 7 and reinstalling all previously installed programs. Windows Easy Transfer can assist in this process.[1][3][22][23]
Microsoft made upgrade SKUs of Windows 7 for selected editions of Windows XP and Windows Vista. The difference between these SKUs and full SKUs of Windows 7 is their lower price and proof of license ownership of a qualifying previous version of Windows. Same restrictions on in-place upgrading applies to these SKUs as well.[24] In addition, Windows 7 is available as a Family Pack upgrade edition in certain markets, to upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium only. It gives licenses to upgrade three machines from Vista or Windows XP to the Windows 7 Home Premium edition. These are not full versions, so each machine to be upgraded must have one of these qualifying previous versions of Windows for them to work.[25] In the United States, this offer expired in early December 2009.[26] In October 2010, to commemorate the anniversary of Windows 7, Microsoft once again made Windows 7 Home Premium Family Pack available for a limited time, while supplies lasted.[27]
Upgrade compatibility
Edit
There are two possible ways to upgrade to Windows 7 from an earlier version of Windows:
- An in-place install (labelled «Upgrade» in the installer), where settings and programs are preserved from an older version of Windows. This option is only sometimes available, depending on the editions of Windows being used, and is not available at all unless upgrading from Windows Vista.[28]
- A clean install (labelled «Custom» in the installer), where all settings including but not limited to user accounts, applications, user settings, music, photos, and programs are erased entirely and the current operating system is erased and replaced with Windows 7. This option is always available and is required for all versions of Windows XP.[29]
The table below lists which upgrade paths allow for an in-place install. Note that in-place upgrades can only be performed when the previous version of Windows is of the same architecture. If upgrading from a 32-bit installation to a 64-bit installation or downgrading from 64-bit installation to 32-bit installation, a clean install is mandatory regardless of the editions being used.
| Version and its specific edition of Windows to upgrade from |
Edition of Windows 7 to upgrade to | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home Basic |
Home Premium |
Professional | Enterprise | Ultimate | |
| Vista Home Basic | In-place | In-place | Clean | Clean | In-place |
| Vista Home Premium | Clean | In-place | Clean | Clean | In-place |
| Vista Business | Clean | Clean | In-place | In-place | In-place |
| Vista Enterprise | Clean | Clean | Clean | In-place | Clean |
| Vista Ultimate | Clean | Clean | Clean | Clean | In-place |
| XP | Clean | Clean | Clean | Clean | Clean |
| 2000/ME and earlier | Ineligible | Ineligible | Ineligible | Ineligible | Ineligible |
In-place installation option available.
Requires clean install.
Requires full version of Windows and a clean install. Ineligible for upgrade pricing.
Anytime Upgrade editions
Edit
Microsoft still supports in-place upgrades from a lower edition of Windows 7 to a higher one, using the Windows Anytime Upgrade tool.[1] There are currently three retail options available (though it is currently unclear whether they can be used with previous installations of the N versions).[30] There are no family pack versions of the Anytime Upgrade editions. It was possible to use the Product Key from a Standard upgrade edition to accomplish an in-place upgrade (e.g. Home Premium to Ultimate).[31][32]
- Starter to Home Premium
- Starter to Professional1
- Starter to Ultimate1
- Home Premium to Professional
- Home Premium to Ultimate
- Professional to Ultimate1
1 Available in retail, and at the Microsoft Store
Derivatives
Edit
- Windows Thin PC
- On February 9, 2011, Microsoft announced Windows Thin PC, a branded derivative of Windows Embedded Standard 7 with Service Pack 1, designed as a lightweight version of Windows 7 for installation on low performance PCs as an alternative to using a dedicated thin client device. It succeeded Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs, which was based on Windows XP Embedded. Windows Thin PC was released on June 6, 2011.
- Mainstream support for Windows Thin PC ended on October 11, 2016, and extended support ended on October 12, 2021.[33]
- Embedded versions
- Windows 7 is also currently available in two distinct forms of Windows Embedded, named as Windows Embedded Standard 7 (known as Windows Embedded Standard 2011 prior to release, the newest being Windows Embedded Standard 7 with Service Pack 1) and Windows Embedded POSReady 7. Both versions are eligible for Extended Security Updates (ESU) for up to 3 years after their end of extended support dates.[7] In addition, binary identical for Embedded Systems (FES) variants of Professional and Ultimate editions are also available, differing only in licensing, and with their support periods also matching their non FES variants.
- Mainstream support for Windows Embedded 7 Standard ended on October 13, 2015, and extended support ended on October 13, 2020.[34] Mainstream support for Windows Embedded POSReady 7 ended on October 11, 2016, and extended support ended on October 12, 2021.[35] Extended Security Updates (ESU) last for Windows Embedded 7 Standard until October 10, 2023.[34] ESU for Windows Embedded POSReady 7 last until October 8, 2024.[36][35][37][38]
Comparison chart
Edit
| Features | Starter | Home Basic | Home Premium | Professional | Enterprise | Ultimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensing scheme | OEM licensing | Retail and OEM licensing in emerging markets |
Retail and OEM licensing |
Retail, OEM and volume licensing[42] |
Volume licensing[42] | Retail and OEM licensing |
| Maximum physical memory (RAM) (32-Bit)[43] | 2 GB | 4 GB | ||||
| Maximum physical memory (RAM) (64-Bit)[43] | — | 8 GB | 16 GB | 192 GB | ||
| Maximum physical CPUs supported[a][44] | 1 | 2 | ||||
| Desktop Gadgets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in AVCHD support[45] | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multiple monitors | No | High quality required | High quality required | High quality required | High quality required | High quality required |
| Fast user switching | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Desktop Window Manager | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Mobility Center | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Printing via the Internet | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Parental Controls[46] | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 64-bit edition available? | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Aero | No | Partial | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in DVD (MPEG-2 and Dolby Digital) decoder[3] | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-touch | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Media Center | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Media Player remote media experience[b] | No | No | Yes[47] | Yes[47] | Yes[47] | Yes[47] |
| Premium games included | No | No | Yes | Yes[c] | Yes[c] | Yes |
| HomeGroup support | Join only | Join only | Create or join | Create or join | Create or join | Create or join |
| Back up to network with Backup and Restore Center[49] | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Act as host for Remote Desktop Services | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dynamic disks[50] | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Encrypting File System | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Location-aware printing | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Presentation mode | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Group Policy[51] | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Offline files and folder redirection[51] | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Server domain joining | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows XP Mode[d] | No | Partial | Partial | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Software restriction policies | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote administration tools | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Active Directory Lightweight Directory Services (AD LDS)[e] | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AppLocker | No | No | No | Create policies, but cannot enforce | Create and enforce policies | Create and enforce policies |
| Aero glass remoting[52][53] | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Media Player multimedia redirection[53] | No | No | No | No | Yes[47] | Yes[47] |
| Enterprise search scopes[51]: 130 | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Federated search[54] | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| BitLocker Drive Encryption | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| BranchCache Distributed Cache | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Subsystem for Unix-based Applications | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Supports Multilingual User Interface packages | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) enhancements[51]: 130 | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) licensed[55] | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| VHD booting[f] | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Switching between any of the 37 available languages[57][58] | No | No | No | No | Yes[58] | Yes[58] |
| Features | Starter | Home Basic | Home Premium | Professional | Enterprise | Ultimate |
See also
Edit
- Windows 2000 editions
- Windows XP editions
- Windows Vista editions
- Windows 8 editions
- Windows 10 editions
Notes
Edit
- ^ Not the same as logical processor limits: all editions are limited to 32 logical processors for IA-32 and 256 for x64
- ^ Feature of Windows Media Player which enables the use and control of media libraries on other computers
- ^ a b Disabled by default.[48]
- ^ Windows Virtual PC including a complete copy of Windows XP with Service Pack 3 using Remote Desktop Protocol to display individual applications integrated with the host OS (Windows 7). Windows XP Mode is available as a free download from Microsoft.
- ^ formerly Active Directory Application Mode (ADAM)
- ^ Any edition of Windows 7 can be installed onto a VHD volume; these installations even appear in the boot menu. However, only Enterprise or Ultimate editions start. Other editions return an error message.[56]
References
Edit
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r «All Windows 7 Versions—What You Need to Know». ExtremeTech. February 5, 2009. Retrieved February 5, 2009.
- ^ a b LeBlanc, Brandon (February 9, 2009). «A closer look at the Windows 7 SKUs». Windows Team Blog. Microsoft. Retrieved February 9, 2009.
- ^ a b c d e Thurrott, Paul (February 3, 2009). «Windows 7 Product Editions». Retrieved February 3, 2009.
- ^ a b «Microsoft unveils ‘screaming deals’ for Windows 7». ZDNet. June 25, 2009. Retrieved June 25, 2009.
- ^ «Windows Anytime Upgrade and Family Pack Pricing». Microsoft. July 31, 2009. Retrieved July 31, 2009.
- ^ «Microsoft product support lifecycle information by product family: Windows 7». Microsoft. Retrieved January 28, 2020.
- ^ a b «Lifecycle FAQ-Extended Security Updates». support.microsoft.com. Retrieved August 12, 2020.
The Extended Security Update (ESU) program is a last resort option for customers who need to run certain legacy Microsoft products past the end of support.
- ^ «Windows lifecycle fact sheet». support.microsoft.com.
- ^ Keizer, Gregg (May 29, 2009). «Microsoft kills Windows 7 Starter’s 3-app limit». Computer World.
- ^ «Windows 7 Wins on Netbook PCs». Microsoft. February 3, 2009. Retrieved February 3, 2009.
- ^ «Microsoft forbids changes to Windows 7 netbook wallpaper». The Register. June 19, 2009. Retrieved October 22, 2009.
- ^ Hachman, Mark (February 4, 2009). «The Windows 7 Versions: What You Need to Know». PC Magazine. Windows 7 Home Basic. Retrieved October 22, 2011.
- ^ «How to Tell: Geographically Restricted Microsoft Software». Microsoft. Retrieved November 17, 2009.
- ^ a b «All Windows 7 Versions—What You Need to Know – Windows Home Premium». ExtremeTech. February 5, 2009. Retrieved February 5, 2009.
- ^ Bott, Ed. «Do you need more than Windows 7 Home Premium?». ZDNet. CBS Interactive. Retrieved January 15, 2014.
- ^ a b «Products: Windows 7 Enterprise». Microsoft. Retrieved April 2, 2009.
- ^ «Description of the Windows Media Feature Pack for Windows 7 N and for Windows 7 KN». Microsoft. November 10, 2009. Retrieved April 24, 2011.
- ^ «Media Feature Pack for Windows 7 N with Service Pack 1 and Windows 7 KN with Service Pack 1 (KB968211)». Microsoft. March 7, 2011. Retrieved April 24, 2011.
- ^ Trenholm, Richard (June 26, 2009). «Windows 7 E: Your questions anwered». CNET. Archived from the original on October 12, 2022. Retrieved October 12, 2022.
- ^ «What is Windows 7 Ultimate Signature Edition?». Microsoft. September 8, 2009. Retrieved March 5, 2023.
- ^ «The Microsoft Windows 7 Upgrade Program Rev. 2.0». Tech ARP. February 10, 2009. Retrieved February 10, 2009.
- ^ a b Foley, Mary-Jo (February 3, 2009). «Microsoft’s Windows 7 line-up: The good, the bad and the ugly». ZDNet. Retrieved February 17, 2009.
- ^ Fiveash, Kelly (February 5, 2009). «Windows 7 ‘upgrade’ doesn’t mark XP spot». Channel Register. The Register. Retrieved February 12, 2009.
- ^ «Microsoft Store UK – Windows 7». Archived from the original on September 19, 2009. Retrieved September 14, 2009.
- ^ steam blog, dated 2009/07/31, accessed September 16, 2009.
- ^ Windows 7 Family Pack Discontinued
- ^ Family Pack returns in time for the Anniversary of Windows 7
- ^ «Windows 7 Upgrade Paths». Microsoft. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
- ^ «Upgrading to Windows 7: frequently asked questions». Microsoft. Retrieved February 12, 2016.
- ^ «Windows Anytime Upgrades». Amazon. Retrieved September 14, 2009.
- ^ «Ultimate steal – Windows 7 Premium ok for Windows 7 Starter?». Microsoft. February 2, 2010. Archived from the original on January 31, 2011. Retrieved August 13, 2010.
- ^ «Windows 7 Student upgrade». Microsoft. December 20, 2009. Archived from the original on August 2, 2012. Retrieved August 13, 2010.
- ^ «Microsoft Support Lifecycle for Windows Thin PC». learn.microsoft.com. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
- ^ a b «Microsoft Support Lifecycle for Windows Embedded Standard 7». learn.microsoft.com. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
- ^ a b «Microsoft Support Lifecycle for Windows Embedded POSReady 7». learn.microsoft.com. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
- ^ «Windows Embedded POSReady 7 Reaches End of Support – Now What?». Arrow Electronics, Inc. September 23, 2021. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
The first year, which runs from Oct 2021 to Oct 2022, requires purchasing 100 hours of support priced over $22,000, and the POS7 ESU licenses are $50 per device. The pricing then doubles each year with a maximum of three years.
- ^ «Microsoft Extended Security Update (ESU) Program». Bsquare Corporation. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
- ^ «Lifecycle FAQ-Extended Security Updates». support.microsoft.com. Retrieved August 14, 2023.
The Extended Security Update (ESU) program is a last resort option for customers who need to run certain legacy Microsoft products past the end of support.
- ^ «Windows 7 Editions – Features on Parade». Softpedia. February 5, 2009. Retrieved February 5, 2009.
- ^ «Windows 7: Which Edition is Right For You?». PCWorld. February 3, 2009. Retrieved February 5, 2009.
- ^ Bott, Ed (June 3, 2009). «From Starter to Ultimate: What’s really in each Windows 7 Edition?». ZDNet. Retrieved August 14, 2009.
- ^ a b Schuster, Gavriella (September 1, 2009). «Which Windows 7 Is Best for You?». Microsoft. Retrieved August 1, 2010.
- ^ a b «Physical Memory Limits: Windows 7». Microsoft Developer Network. October 14, 2010. Retrieved November 1, 2010.
- ^ «Windows 7 System Requirements». Retrieved September 29, 2010.
- ^ «Windows Media Player 12». Windows 7 Features. Microsoft Corporation. Retrieved October 22, 2011.
- ^ Tulloch, Mitch; Northrup, Tony; Honeycutt, Jerry (2010). Windows 7 Resource Kit. Redmond, Washington: Microsoft Press. pp. 29–30. ISBN 978-0-7356-4277-5.
- ^ a b c d e f Windows 7 N Edition does not include Windows Media Player.
- ^ «Where are my games?». Microsoft. Retrieved July 30, 2014.
- ^ Which one is right for you? – Microsoft Windows
- ^ «You cannot select or format a hard disk partition when you try to install Windows Vista, Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2». Microsoft. September 14, 2007. Retrieved December 17, 2009.
- ^ a b c d Windows 7 Product Guide
- ^ Terminal services team (June 23, 2009). «Aero Glass Remoting in Windows Server 2008 R2». Microsoft. Retrieved September 16, 2009.
- ^ a b Terminal Services Team (August 21, 2009). «Remote Desktop Connection 7 for Windows 7, Windows XP & Windows Vista». Microsoft. Retrieved October 27, 2009.
- ^ «Microsoft Windows Enterprise: Windows 7 Features». Microsoft. Retrieved November 24, 2009.
- ^ 6292A Installing and Configuring Windows 7 Client: Microsoft. p14. Part Number X17-37160 Released 10/2009
- ^ Shultz, Greg (September 17, 2012). «Native VHD Boot is available in all versions of Windows 7». TechRepublic. CBS Interactive. Retrieved August 19, 2014.
- ^ «Why buy Windows 7 Ultimate?». Microsoft. Archived from the original on July 18, 2011. Retrieved August 9, 2011.
- ^ a b c «Windows 7 language packs are available for computers that are running Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise». Microsoft. Retrieved August 19, 2011.
Further reading
Edit
- «Windows 7 Lineup Offers Clear Choice for Consumers and Businesses». Microsoft News Center. Redmond, Washington: Microsoft. February 3, 2009. Retrieved July 10, 2018.
- «Brief: Licensing Windows 7 for Use with Virtual Machine Technologies» (.docx). Microsoft Volume Licensing. Microsoft. March 2010. Retrieved June 6, 2011.
- Thurrott, Paul (October 6, 2010). «Windows 7 Product Editions: A Comparison». Paul Thurrott’s SuperSite for Windows. Retrieved June 6, 2011.
| Windows 7 | Editions |
Windows 7 is available in six different editions, but only Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate are widely available at retail. The other editions focus on other markets, such as the developing world or enterprise use. All editions support IA-32 CPUs and all editions except Starter support the x64 CPUs. (64-bit installation media is not included in Home Basic edition packages, but can be obtained from Microsoft).
According to Microsoft, the features for all editions of Windows 7 are stored on the machine, regardless of what edition is in use. Users who wish to upgrade to an edition of Windows 7 with more features can then use Windows Anytime Upgrade to purchase the upgrade and to unlock the features of those editions. Microsoft announced Windows 7 pricing information for some editions on June 25, 2009, and Windows Anytime Upgrade and Family Pack pricing on July 31, 2009.
| Edition | Description |
|---|---|
| Windows 7 Starter | Windows Aero theme is not included, and it isn’t available in 64-bit. The desktop wallpaper and Visual Style (Windows 7 Basic) are not user-changeable. |
| Windows 7 Home Basic | Some Aero options are excluded along with several new features. |
| Windows 7 Home Premium | Features aimed at the home market segment, such as Windows Media Center, Windows Aero and touch-screen controls. |
| Windows 7 Professional | All features of Home Premium, plus joining a domain, Remote Desktop, EFS, Windows XP Mode. |
| Windows 7 Ultimate | All features, including BitLocker, Multilingual User Interface (MUI) packages. |
| Windows 7 Enterprise | Same as Ultimate, but Microsoft Software Assurance (volume-licensing) only. |
Editions in details[]
Main editions[]
- Windows 7 Starter
- Windows 7 Starter is the edition of Windows 7 that contains the fewest features. Windows 7 Starter is only available in a 32-bit version. The Windows Aero theme is sadly not included in this version. The desktop wallpaper and Visual Styles (Windows 7 Basic) are not user-changeable. Microsoft originally intended to restrict the edition to running 3 simultaneous applications but this limitation was dropped.
- This edition is available pre-installed on computers, especially netbooks, through system integrators or computer manufacturers using OEM licenses.
- Windows 7 Home Basic
- Windows 7 Home Basic is available in «emerging markets«, in 141 different countries. Some Windows Aero options are excluded along with several new features. Home Basic, along with other editions sold in emerging markets, include geographical activation restriction, which requires users to activate Windows within a certain region or country.
- Windows 7 Home Premium
- This edition contains features aimed at the home market segment, such as Windows Media Center, Windows Aero and multi-touch support.
- Windows 7 Professional
- This edition is targeted towards enthusiasts and small-business users. It includes all the features of Windows 7 Home Premium, and adds the ability to participate in a Windows Server domain. Additional features include operating as a Remote Desktop server, location aware printing, Encrypting File System, Presentation Mode, Software Restriction Policies (but not the extra management features of App Locker) and Windows XP Mode. Like Enterprise, Microsoft will support this edition until 2020.
- Windows 7 Enterprise
- This edition targets the enterprise segment of the market and is sold through volume licensing to companies which have a Software Assurance contract with Microsoft. Additional features include support for Multilingual User Interface (MUI) packages, BitLocker Drive Encryption, and UNIX application support. Not available through retail or OEM channels, this edition is distributed through Microsoft Software Assurance (SA). As a result it includes several SA-only benefits, including a license allowing the operating of diskless nodes (diskless PCs), the running of multiple virtual machines, and activation via WOLF. Like Professional, Microsoft will support this edition until 2020.
- Windows 7 Ultimate
- Windows 7 Ultimate contains all of the same features as Windows 7 Enterprise, but unlike the Enterprise edition, it is available to home users on an individual license basis. Windows 7 Home Premium and Windows 7 Professional users are able to upgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate for a fee using Windows Anytime Upgrade if they wish to do so. Unlike Windows Vista Ultimate, the Windows 7 Ultimate edition does not include the Windows Ultimate Extras feature or any exclusive features as Microsoft had stated. However, even though it is the consumer equivalent to Enterprise, like Home Premium, Microsoft will only support Ultimate until 2015.
Sub-editions[]
- N and KN Editions
- The features in the N and KN Editions are the same as their equivalent full versions, but do not include Windows Media Player or other Windows Media-related technologies, such as Windows Media Center and Windows DVD Maker. The cost of the N and KN Editions are the same as the full versions, as the Media Feature Pack for Windows 7 N or Windows 7 KN can be downloaded without charge from Microsoft.
- VL Builds
- VL builds work with VLKs (volume license keys). Volume license keys can be used to activate multiple installations of the software without any mechanism (such as a product activation mechanism) checking the total number of installations. The license for the software will place restrictions on the use of the key. Typically the license will limit the key to a fixed number of installations which must only be within the licensee’s organization and also place the licensee under an obligation to keep a record of the number of installations, keep the key confidential and possibly even require that the licensee organization makes itself available for a software licensing audit to verify that its use of the key is within the terms of the license.
Upgrade editions[]
Windows Vista Service Pack 1 can be upgraded to Windows 7 with an in-place upgrade if the processor architecture, comparable edition, and language version are the same. Earlier versions than Windows Vista Service Pack 1 can only be upgraded to Windows 7 via a clean install. However, in some countries, Microsoft has recommended a clean install regardless of whether going from XP or Vista, with reasoning that has not been made clear.
Standard upgrade editions[]
Windows 7 supports upgrading from an applicable version of XP and Vista to an applicable version of Windows 7 via Upgrade Editions, however there is no direct way to upgrade earlier than Windows Vista Service Pack 1. Users can upgrade to Vista first then to Windows 7 or use Windows Easy Transfer to collect data and settings from installed programs, install Windows 7 then install their program data and settings from Windows Easy Transfer, then re-install all their programs. Not all programs will install if they don’t support Windows 7. The latter method does a fresh install of Windows 7 so all software needs to be re-installed. If the original hardware is kept, suitable drivers will need to be found. The options mean that users can update freely from any previous version to any of the new three retail editions of Windows 7: Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate (plus in Europe, and possibly South Korea, these Upgrade Editions also come in optional N versions). Discounted upgrade pricing is only available to current users of genuine copies XP or Vista.
Standard upgrade editions (Family Packs)[]
Windows 7 is available as an Upgrade Family Pack edition in certain markets, to upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium only. It gives licenses to upgrade three machines from Vista or Windows XP to the Windows 7 Home Premium edition. These are not full versions, so each machine to be upgraded must have one of these qualifying previous versions of Windows for them to work. In the United States, this offer was discontinued in early December 2009.
Microsoft has since announced it will resume availability of Windows 7 Home Premium Family Pack which will be available starting October 3, 2010 for a limited time while supplies last.
Upgrade compatibility[]
There are two possible ways to upgrade to Windows 7 from an earlier version of Windows:
- An in-place install (labelled «Upgrade» in the installer), where settings and programs are preserved from an older version of Windows. This option is only sometimes available, depending on the editions of Windows being used, and is not available at all unless upgrading from Windows Vista.
- A clean install (labelled «Custom» in the installer). This option is always available.
The table below lists which upgrade paths allow for an in-place install. Note that in-place upgrades can only be performed when the previous version of Windows is of the same architecture. If upgrading from a 32-bit installation to a 64-bit installation, a clean install is mandatory regardless of the editions being used.
| 7 Home Basic | 7 Home Premium | 7 Professional | 7 Enterprise | 7 Ultimate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vista Home Basic | In-place | In-place | Clean | Clean | In-place |
| Vista Home Premium | Clean | In-place | Clean | Clean | In-place |
| Vista Business | Clean | Clean | In-place | In-place | In-place |
| Vista Ultimate | Clean | Clean | Clean | Clean | In-place |
| 2000/XP | Clean | Clean | Clean | Clean | Clean |
Anytime Upgrade editions[]
Windows 7 also supports in-place upgrades from a lower edition of Windows 7 to a higher one using the Windows Anytime Upgrade tool.There are currently three retail options available (though it is currently unclear whether they can be used with previous installations of the N versions). Currently, there are no plans for family pack versions of the Anytime Upgrade editions.
It is possible to use the Product Key from a Standard upgrade edition to accomplish an in-place upgrade (e.g. Home Premium to Ultimate).
- Starter to Home Premium.
- Starter to Professional1.
- Starter to Ultimate1.
- Home Premium to Professional.
- Home Premium to Ultimate.
- Professional to Ultimate1.
1Not available in retail, only at the Microsoft Store
Comparison chart[]
| Features / Availability | Starter | Home Basic | Home Premium | Professional | Enterprise | Ultimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OEM licensing | Retail and OEM licensing in Emerging markets | Retail and OEM licensing | Retail, OEM and Volume licensing | Volume licensing | Retail and OEM licensing | |
| End of Support | 2015.01.13 | 2015.01.13 | 2015.01.13 | 2020.01.14 | 2020.01.14 | 2015.01.13 |
| Full Package Retail Pricing | Not available for retail markets | Not available in developed markets | US$199.99 | US$299.99 | Not available for retail markets | US$319.99 |
| Upgrade Package Retail Pricing | Not available for retail markets | Not available in developed markets | US$119.99 | US$199.99 | Not available for retail markets | US$219.99 |
| Maximum physical memory (64-bit mode) | N/A | 8 GB | 16 GB | 192 GB | 192 GB | 192 GB |
| 32-bit and 64-bit versions | 32-bit only | Both (64-bit disc not included) | Both | Both | Both | Both |
| Maximum physical CPUs supported | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Backup and Restore Center | Cannot back up to network | Cannot back up to network | Cannot back up to network | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Desktop (Client and Host) | Client only | Client only | Client only | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Home Group (create and join) | Join only | Join only | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multiple monitors | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fast user switching | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Desktop Wallpaper Changeable | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Desktop Window Manager | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Mobility Center | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Aero | No | Partial | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Touch | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Premium Games Included | No | No | Yes | Disabled by default | Disabled by default | Yes |
| Windows Media Center | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Media Player Remote Media Experience | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dynamic Disks | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Encrypting File System | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Location Aware Printing | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Presentation Mode | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Group Policy | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Offline Files and Folder redirection | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Server domain joining | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows XP Mode | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Software Restriction Policies | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Aero glass remoting | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Media Player multimedia redirection | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Audio recording over Terminal Services | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-display Terminal Services | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Enterprise Search Scopes:130 | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Federated Search | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| AppLocker | No | No | No | Create Policies, But Cannot Enforce | Create and Enforce Polices | Create and Enforce Polices |
| BitLocker Drive Encryption | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| BranchCache Distributed Cache | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| DirectAccess | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Subsystem for Unix-based Applications | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Multilingual User Interface Pack | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Enhancements:130 | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual Hard Disk Booting | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Derivatives[]
Windows Thin PC
- Windows Thin PC
- On February 9, 2011, Microsoft announced Windows Thin PC, a branded derivative of Windows Embedded Standard 7 with Service Pack 1, designed as a lightweight version used only in thin client scenarios. It succeeded Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs, which was based on Windows XP Embedded. Microsoft announced that it is expected to become available during early 2011. A Community Technology Preview (CTP) version was released publicly on March 28 through their Connect website. On May 2, a Release Candidate (RC) was made available on their website. On June 6, Windows Thin PC was released. Microsoft promised that it would be generally available for download on July 1.
- Embedded versions
- Windows 7 is also currently available as an embedded version to developers, named as Windows 7 Embedded Standard (previously known as Windows Embedded 2011, the newest being Windows Embedded Standard 7 with Service Pack 1).
See also[]
- Windows 2000 editions
- Windows XP editions
- Windows Vista editions
References[]
External links[]
- Windows 7 homepage
- Microsoft PressPass article
- Paul Thurrott’s SuperSite for Windows: Windows 7 Product Editions: A Comparison
|
Microsoft Windows family |
|---|
| Versions • Components • History |
| Original |
| DOS-based |
| Windows 1.0 • Windows 2.0 • Windows 2.1 (Windows/286 • Windows/386) • Windows 3.0 • Windows 3.1 |
| Windows 9x |
| Windows 95 • Windows 98 • Windows Me |
| Windows NT |
| Early versions |
| Windows NT 3.1 • Windows NT 3.5 • Windows NT 3.51 • Windows NT 4.0 • Windows 2000 |
| Client |
| Windows XP (development) • Windows Vista (editions • development) • Windows 7 (editions • development) • Windows 8 • Windows 10 • Windows 11 |
| Windows Server |
| Server 2003 • Server 2008 (2008 R2) • HPC Server 2008 • Home Server • Small Business Server • Essential Business Server • Windows Server 2012 • Windows Server 2016 • Windows Server 2019 • Windows Server 2022 |
| Specialized |
| Windows Embedded • Windows PE • Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs |
| Mobile |
| Windows Mobile • Windows Phone |
| Cancelled |
| Cairo • Nashville • Neptune • Odyssey • Windows 10X |
| Related |
| Metro • Midori • OS/2 • Windows Aero • Windows Setup • Windows XP themes • Microsoft Plus! |
- Windows 7 Ultimate
-
Вычислительная техника: Windows 7 Максимальная
Универсальный англо-русский словарь.
.
2011.
Смотреть что такое «Windows 7 Ultimate» в других словарях:
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Windows Vista Ultimate — Windows Vista Entwickler Microsoft Version Build 6001 … Deutsch Wikipedia
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Windows Vista — Part of the Microsoft Windows family … Wikipedia
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Windows Ultimate Extras — are optional features offered to users of Windows Vista Ultimate Edition. They are accessible with Windows Update. Ultimate Extras replace the market role of Microsoft Plus!, a product sold for prior consumer releases of Microsoft Windows.cite… … Wikipedia
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Windows DreamScene — Developer(s) Microsoft Initial release February 13, 2007 Operating system Windows Vista Ultimate Type Animated desktop wallpaper … Wikipedia
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Windows Ultimate Extras — sont des caractéristiques optionnelles offertes aux utilisateurs de Windows Vista Ultimate Edition. Elles sont accessibles depuis Windows Update. Windows Ultimate Extras remplace le rôle de marché de Microsoft Plus!, un produit vendu à des… … Wikipédia en Français
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Ultimate Extras — Ultimate Extras специальные приложения, доступные только для пользователей Windows Vista Ultimate. Windows 7 Ultimate не включает в себя Windows Ultimate Extras. Среди них на данный момент доступны: Windows DreamScene Hold’em Poker… … Википедия
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Windows Longhorn — Windows Vista Entwickler Microsoft Version Build 6001 … Deutsch Wikipedia
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Windows Mojave — Windows Vista Entwickler Microsoft Version Build 6001 … Deutsch Wikipedia
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Windows NT 6.0 — Windows Vista Entwickler Microsoft Version Build 6001 … Deutsch Wikipedia
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Windows Vista — Entwickler Microsoft Version Build 6001 … Deutsch Wikipedia
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Windows Vista Home Premium — Windows Vista Entwickler Microsoft Version Build 6001 … Deutsch Wikipedia
Translation of «Windows 7 Максимальная» into English
Windows 7 Ultimate is the translation of «Windows 7 Максимальная» into English.
Sample translated sentence: В Windows 7 Максимальная, Windows7 Корпоративная и всех выпусках Windows Server®2008R2 можно установить несколько языковых пакетов. ↔ For Windows7 Ultimate, Windows7 Enterprise, and all editions of Windows Server®2008R2, you can install multiple language packs.
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Windows 7 Ultimate
The most complete edition of Microsoft Windows 7 operating system that is designed for users who use the same computer at home and for their daily work.
Declension
Stem
Match words
В Windows 7 Максимальная, Windows7 Корпоративная и всех выпусках Windows Server®2008R2 можно установить несколько языковых пакетов.
For Windows7 Ultimate, Windows7 Enterprise, and all editions of Windows Server®2008R2, you can install multiple language packs.
Поддерживаемый VHD-образ. Единственными поддерживаемыми операционными системами являются Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 7 Корпоративная и Windows 7 Максимальная.
The only supported operating systems are Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 7 Enterprise, and Windows 7 Ultimate. Fixed, dynamic, and differencing .vhd images are supported.
Максимум памяти Позволяет указывать максимальный объем памяти в ме габайтах, который разрешается использовать Windows 7.
Maximum Memory—Specifies the maximum amount of memory, in megabytes, that Windows 7 can use.
В требованиях лицензирования утверждается, что все выпуски Windows®7 за исключением Windows 7 Максимальная и Windows7 Корпоративная могут включать только один язык.
Licensing requirements state that all Windows®7 editions can include only a single language, except for Windows7 Ultimate and Windows7 Enterprise.
Корпорация Microsoft назвала максимальную комплектацию нетбука, на который разрешит устанавливать операционную систему Windows 7 версий Starter Edition и Home Basic, сообщает Engadget….
European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) Quarterly Review is a publication that is distributed to stakeholders and other interested readers every three months. Vol.
Компания «Nero» тесно сотрудничала с корпорацией «Microsoft» над обеспечением максимальной совместимости «Nero 9» и «Nero BackItUp & Burn» с ОС «Windows 7».
Nero has worked closely with Microsoft to ensure that Nero 9 and Nero BackItUp & Burn are compatible with Windows 7.
Оснастка «Управление сканированием» также по умолчанию устанавливается на компьютерах с операционной системой Windows 7 Максимальная или Windows 7 Корпоративная, чтобы обеспечить удаленное администрирование ресурсов сканирования.
The Scan Management snap-in is also installed by default on computers running Windows 7 Ultimate and Windows 7 Enterprise so that you can administer your scan resources remotely.
BitLocker имеется в операционных системах WindowsVista® Enterprise, WindowsVista® Ultimate, Windows®7 Корпоративная, Windows®7 Максимальная и WindowsServer®2008.
The TPM interacts with BitLocker to help provide seamless protection when the computer restarts. BitLocker is available in WindowsVista® Enterprise, WindowsVista® Ultimate, Windows®7 Enterprise, Windows®7 Ultimate, and WindowsServer®2008.
Выберите тип образа (например, Windows®7 Максимальная), затем нажмите кнопку ОК.
Click to select an image type (for example, Windows®7 Ultimate), and then click OK.
Да, согласен, там написано коротко, просто и понятно, НО… Во-первых, для начала, «Редактор групповой политики» присутствует только в «профессиональной (Professional)» и «максимальной (Ultimate)» выпусках Windows 7;
Ok, I fixed the error. Thank you:-)! But now it doesn’t work with my subscription plugin. I put subscription form and categories in ‘fixed position’, but only categories widget works.
Технические детали Формат .ico был представлен в первой редакции Windows, и, постепенно совершенствовался в плане максимального размера и количества поддерживаемых цветов. Windows 7 в настоящее время поддерживает размеры иконок до 256х256 пикселей в 32бит (включая 24-бит — цвет, и 8 бит прозрачность).
Technical Details The .ico file type was introduced by the first edition of Windows and has slowly evolved in terms of maximum pixel size and the level of colour support. Windows 7 currently supports icon sizes up to 256 x 256 pixels at 32 bit (comprising 24 bit colour, and 8 bit transparency).
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- Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 Free Download and Install (32/64 Bits)
By Daisy | Follow |
Last Updated
Some users still use the Windows 7 edition and they want to download Windows 7 Ultimate SP1. However, they don’t know where to find the ISO file. Don’t worry! This post from MiniTool tells you how to free download and install Windows 7 Ultimate SP1.
The following is about Windows 7 Ultimate with Service Pack 1 download for 32-bit and 64-bit PCs. To begin with, we will provide some basic information about Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 for you.
Tips:
Tip: Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 ends on January 14, 2020. To continue receiving security updates from Microsoft, it’s recommended to upgrade to the latest Windows operating system – Windows 11. Before upgrading, you had better back up your important data in Windows 7. To do that, a PC backup program – MiniTool ShadowMaker can do you a favor.
MiniTool ShadowMaker TrialClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Windows 7 Ultimate SP1
Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 was released in October 2009. It aims to provide all the features included in other versions of the software, and it even has some unique features of this version of Windows 7.
Features of Windows 7 Ultimate SP1:
1. BitLocker Encryption
BitLocker encrypts Windows and the entire drive where your data resides. After activating BitLocker, all files you save on this player are automatically encrypted. This is a new security feature that automatically encrypts all data on your hard drive, providing greater security.
2. Boot from VHD Directly
The ability for a computer to boot from a virtual hard disk file with or without a host operating system.
3. Power Shell 2.0
A command-line interface for system administrators. PowerShell 2.0 includes many (over 500) scripts that automate administrative tasks and deployment policies, including desktop security.
4. Ultimate Language Pack Feature
It allows users to easily switch between 35 languages Install languages by downloading language packs through Windows Update.
5. Advanced Storage
Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 has an advanced Backup and Restore Center that can back up all network and group policies.
Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 Download
To download Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 32 or 64-bit, you can go to the https://archive.org/ official website and search for Windows 7 Ultimate SP1. Then, you can see the ISO image link. You can also click the SHOW ALL option to get more download options.
Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 Install
After downloading Windows 7 Ultimate SP1, you can start to install it.
Step 1: Download Rufus and run it on your PC.
Step 2: Connect a USB flash drive to your PC and then write the ISO file you have got to it.
Step 3: Restart the computer to enter BIOS and change the boot order to run Windows from the USB drive.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the rest steps.
Tips:
Tip: After installing Windows 7 Ultimate SP1, you need to back up your system regularly to provide better protection for it. You can also try MiniTool ShadowMaker to do that. This program allows you to set a password for your backup file. Download it to have a try!
MiniTool ShadowMaker TrialClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Final Words
That’s the information about Windows 7 Ultimate SP1. You can know how to download and install it from a USB flash drive. I hope that this post can be useful to you.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Having been an editor at MiniTool since graduating college as an English major, Daisy specializes in writing about data backups, disk cloning, and file syncing as well as general computer knowledge and issues. In her free time, Daisy enjoys running and going with friends to the amusement park.