Windows 7 - which version to get and does all software have to be re-installed?

[danb4026]

Which version would you recommend for a home office user, with home network (6 computers) and Buffalo linkstation NSD?

 

Also, the thing that keeps me from upgrading right away from Vista 64 is having to reinstall all of my software and worrying about compatibility.

 

Of course there's Max 2010 with tons of scripts and plugins, AutoCad Architecture 2008, all Adobe CS4 products, Vray SP3a, OnyxTree, and the list goes on and on.

 

I really want to upgrade, but the process seems a bit overwhelming.

 

Any recommendations out there?

[AJLynn]

You can refer to the very easy to understand Windows 7 upgrade chart.

 

BTW, for anybody who reads that and gets a migraine, you should know that Apple just announced quad-core i5/i7 iMacs with larger screens

[danb4026]

Thanks Andy, that is very helpful. So it looks like, if you buy the correct version, all programs stay intact! Awesome.

Edited October 22, 2009 by danb4026

[danb4026]

PS....the OEM version is less money than the retail version, any reason to spend more on the retail version?

[AJLynn]

Does the OEM version have limitations on how many times it can be installed, or does it come without tech support? (Not that I've ever called MS tech support...)

 

I preordered mine a while back when the MS online store had a huge preorder discount ($50 upgrades). Then of course my credit card's expiration date passed, and I figured I'd just fix it on the web site, but it turns out that the Microsoft store doesn't have a mechanism to change your credit card info on the web site! (This reminds me of when I last shopped at a CompUSA, in 2006 or 2007, and they didn't have an electronic credit card system, instead they made a carbon copy of the card on the receipt like it was 1982.) So I can't get my upgrade until their phone backlog clears up and they return my call.

[danb4026]

My understanding is that the "upgrade" version, regardless of OEM or Retail, can only be installed on 1 computer. The Full version can be installed on up to 3 computers, but not sure if there is a difference between OEM and Retail.

[AJLynn]

I mean how many times you can reinstall on the same PC. There's been at least one recent OEM Windows version that could only be reactivated twice - so if your system got screwed up and needed a reinstall a third time (and who hasn't had that problem) you were S.O.L.

[beestee]

I preordered mine a while back when the MS online store had a huge preorder discount ($50 upgrades). Then of course my credit card's expiration date passed, and I figured I'd just fix it on the web site, but it turns out that the Microsoft store doesn't have a mechanism to change your credit card info on the web site! (This reminds me of when I last shopped at a CompUSA, in 2006 or 2007, and they didn't have an electronic credit card system, instead they made a carbon copy of the card on the receipt like it was 1982.) So I can't get my upgrade until their phone backlog clears up and they return my call.

 

Same exact situation here.

 

It's Microsoft for crying out loud, what's with the archaic billing system?

 

 

This is how I feel the different versions apply:

 

Starter for Netbooks

Home Premium for Casual User desktops and most notebooks

Professional for Power User desktops and IT User notebooks

Ultimate for those who work with very sensitive data

 

Most notable feature limitations:

 

Starter 32-bit only

Home Premium 16 GB RAM max and no Remote Desktop Hosting

[Crazy Homeless Guy]

Ha. My credit card that I bought a $50 copy of the discounted Windows7 on expired too. Luckily I ordered the copy through New Egg, so I simple resubmitted the payment with a different credit card, and it shipped without a problem. Should arrive tomorrow.

 

On a side note... I would install a fresh copy rather than upgrade from Vista. Even if you have to reinstall all software. Otherwise you are just asking for problems. At least from my experience, and in my opinion.

Edited October 22, 2009 by Crazy Homeless Guy

[francosd]

Hi i have tested windows 7, a month ago , i have a spare hard drive an time to play , so i install w7 and max 2010 an test in the same pc with same 3d model and the results are that is faster my windows xp and max 2008

[Macer]

When I got OEM Vista 64 I was warned any more than two or three installs and you couldn't activate it online - you'd have to phone up to do it and explain yourself before they'd let it go through. I've installed it four times now with no problems though (aside from having to reinstall it that is!).

 

Also no free MS support at all. Hardly needed, but I had a fight between my hardware vendor and MS as to what was causing a fault, so don't rule it out totally.

[sinkman]

When I got OEM Vista 64 I was warned any more than two or three installs and you couldn't activate it online

 

Bull You can reinstall OEM version on the same PC 1 million times!

[Jeff Mottle]

When I got OEM Vista 64 I was warned any more than two or three installs and you couldn't activate it online - you'd have to phone up to do it and explain yourself before they'd let it go through. I've installed it four times now with no problems though (aside from having to reinstall it that is!).

 

Also no free MS support at all. Hardly needed, but I had a fight between my hardware vendor and MS as to what was causing a fault, so don't rule it out totally.

 

Windows has been like this for years. I usually buy OEM versions so after the three or so times you just have to phone Microsoft every time to explain why you are installing again and that you have not installed it on multiple machines at the same time. It's a PITA, but there seems to be nothing else you can do. Adobe and Sorenson seem to be the same way.