Web2Go

Web2Go is back with a new computer and a new determination to help you navigate your way through the labyrinth of the Web. Our ‘mini series’ about operating systems starts with an ‘essentials’ guide to Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 7.

Your computer needs two kinds of software to run. Application software and operating system software.

Applications are all those computer programs you know and love (?) like Microsoft Word, OpenOffice, Mozilla Firefox and iTunes. They’re programs that help us do different tasks like browse the Web, listen to music or write reports and letters.

Operating system software, such as Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 Mac OS or Ubuntu (Linux), controls the overall settings and functions of your computer. It helps to (among other things) manage the various applications you’ve got installed, set the date and time and organize the filing system. Most importantly, it helps you to graphically navigate the stuff that’s on your computer rather than having to enter hundreds of lines of code like they used to in the ‘old’ days of DOS (Disk Operating System).

Without the application software your computer wouldn’t be much fun. Without the operating system it wouldn’t work at all.

Windows 7 is the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system software and it just so happens that I’ve got it on my new computer. In truth, there are some striking similarities, at least visually, between Windows 7 and Windows Vista (Window 7’s widely criticized predecessor) but, well, it just seems to be less annoying . For example, there don’t seem to be as many ‘Are you sure you really want to do this?’ type messages every time you try to install new software or change a setting and the time Windows 7 takes to boot (start) seems to be a lot less.

Usually, I’d advise waiting a while before installing an operating system – probably about 18 months – but I’d read so many articles suggesting that Windows 7 was looking promising that I decided to take the proverbial plunge.

Windows 7 Home Premium is retailing at around $145.00 but I’d recommend that if you’re happy with your current set up – even if it’s Windows 98! – don’t change a thing. If, however, you’re in an experimental mood and you, like me, relish the opportunity to try shiny new things I say give Windows 7 a go.

If you’re already playing around with Windows 7 and you get stuck probably the best place to start is Microsoft’s Windows 7 Help & How To.

The other source of easy to understand, no frills advice I turn to in the face of adversity – computer generated or otherwise – is the ‘For Dummies’ series and there are plenty of Windows 7 For Dummies titles on offer. The current issue of Australian PC User also has a good Windows 7 upgrade guide.

Getting to know your operating system better will help you to find things faster and will generally give you more confidence to fix things that might go wrong with it. Seize the day and seize the operating system I say!

Got a question about your operating system? Leave a comment below and we’ll do what we can to help you find an answer.