| Windows 7 Migration |
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| Wednesday, 05 May 2010 02:00 |
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Harmony’s Migration Plan
Harmony Computing is experienced with Windows XP to Windows 7 migration, allowing for a painless and smooth transition to Windows 7.
We will set up new units with Windows 7 as well as convert old units with Windows XP to Windows 7. This includes but is not limited to migration to Windows 7, troubleshooting compatibility issues, suggested component upgrades and connectivity with old hardware (i.e. printers, scanners and fax).
First Steps Migrating operating systems can be a smooth transition or a compatibility nightmare depending on the steps that you take as a company owner or IT manager. The key step in a smooth transition to windows 7 is planning. Assess your current configuration and ask you’re self what you would like to improve. Then make a list of what programs are needed for your users, the reason for doing this is to check for any compatibility issues before the upgrade. It also gives you a chance to clean up any programs that are no longer needed.
System Requirements The next question is what kind of hardware is currently being used by your company. Windows 7 minimum requirements are the following:
Taken from: http://windows.microsoft.com/systemrequirements These are just the minimum requirements; to unlock other features for Windows 7 you may need the internet. You will also need the internet if you plan on using the “upgrade anytime” option. Other requirements depend on the type of hardware you plan on running (i.e. touch screen, POS systems such as credit card readers and so on)
Dealing with Compatibility Issues One of the biggest concerns for a company is the compatibility problems that come with migrating to a new operating system. In some cases older programs will encounter errors or device drivers will need to be updated. Planning ahead will help overcome most if not all of these problems. Windows 7 also offers tools that can help integrate older programs into your new environment. Compatibility mode is a function of Windows 7 that allows the operating system to run programs as if they are on an older system. With Windows 7 Professional and above there is an XP mode that allows you to operate a virtual XP based machine on top of Windows 7. While these options will solve most issues, you can also check with the software developers to see if they have patches or fixes.
Support, Speed, Security and Functionality Needles you say Windows XP has been a stable and secure platform for almost 10 years. Scheduled to be dropped from support in 2014, you may ask yourself why I should upgrade. Windows 7 can address more memory (64-bit edition), newer programs will be supported, security concerns have been address and fixed. Secondly, why should you wait to upgrade when in many cases Windows 7 has all the tools that will allow you to operate XP programs faster and utilization of newer programs to come.
Hardware Upgrade Another big question when upgrading to widows 7 is if you should be replacing the computer it’s self with the upgrade. While this is not necessary it is also not a bad idea. The majority of companies replace workstations for users every 2 to 3 years. Replacing units that are outdated will allow you to get the most out of your new operating system.
Windows 7 Benefits Overview
Sources http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2009/08/windows7-seven-reasons/ http://windows.microsoft.com/systemrequirements http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?LN=en-gb&C2=1173 http://www.microsoft.com/windows/enterprise/products/windows-7/default.aspx
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