ADN

Windows 7 may be Microsoft’s most anticipated product ever. It builds on Windows Vista’s positives, and eliminates many of that OS’s negatives. It adds new functionality, too—all in a package that is less resource-hungry than its predecessor.
And whether or not you're upgrading from Vista or skipping it altogether and moving up from Windows XP, you'll need to know how to make the most of it in your environment. Here are 77 tips and tricks to get you there.

1. Pick Your Edition. Most business users do not need the more expensive Ultimate Edition; stick with Professional unless you specifically need BitLocker.

2. Upgrading? Go 64-bit. As the second major Windows release to fully support 64-bit, the x64 architecture has definitely arrived on the desktop. Don't buy new 32-bit hardware unless it's a netbook.

3. Use Windows XP Mode. Yes, it's only an embedded Virtual PC with a full copy of WinXP—but it's an embedded Virtual PC with a full copy of Windows XP! This is the first profoundly intelligent use of desktop virtualization we've seen—and a great way to move to Windows 7 without giving up full Windows XP compatibility.

4. Use Windows PowerShell v2. More than just a shell, this is the administration tool you've always wanted: Parallel, distributed processing for administrative tasks! Manage 100 machines literally as easily as you manage one with the new Remoting feature. Windows PowerShell v2 ships for the first time in Windows 7, and within six months will be available for older versions of Windows.

5. Use AppLocker. We've been fans of Software Restriction Policies since Windows XP, and AppLocker finally makes application whitelisting possible. Use it to enhance or even replace your anti-virus software, ensuring that only the software you want to run will run.

6. Shift to and from Explorer and CommandPrompt. The classic Windows power toy Open Command Prompt Here is now an integral part of Windows 7 Explorer. Hold down the shift key then right-click a folder to add this option to the property menu. While you're in a command prompt, if you want to open an Explorer window with the focus of the window on the current directory, enter start.

7. Record Problems. The Problem Steps Recorder (PSR) is a great new feature that helps in troubleshooting a system (see Figure 1). At times, Remote Assistance may not be possible. However, if a person types psr in their Instant Search, it will launch the recorder. Now they can perform the actions needed to recreate the problem and each click will record the screen and the step. They can even add comments. Once complete, the PSR compiles the whole thing into an MHTML file and zips it up so that it can be e-mailed for analysis to the network admin (or family problem solver, depending on how it's being used).

More/Source: http://snurl.com/se1k2

Good points. I'll add my thoughts.

1. IMO, unless you need RDP server support (ability to remotely connect to your PC) or Virtual XP Mode I would suggest saving even more money and going with Home Premium. The cost difference with OEM licensing will save you $40. You can use VNC for remotely connecting and VirtualBox for any virtual desktop needs. Both are free.

2. Actually, 64-bit isn't going to be an option for upgrading. If you have a 32-bit Windows Vista then you must do a clean install to go 64-bit. Of course if you have Windows XP then the only option you will have is a clean install anyway.

3. Virtual XP Mode is a nicely integrated feature but I'd say to save the money and use something like VirtualBox and a lesser edition of Windows 7.

4. I'd say that 99% of the people will NOT use PowerShell at all.

5. Are you kidding me? Maybe good for corporate environments but explaining Group Policy to the average Joe computer user is best left NOT done.

6. Seriously, WTF is TechNET telling people to use Command Prompt? It has been a necessary tool for IT professionals but the average Joe should not be touching it...just like Regedit too or any registry "cleaning" tool.

7. I'll admit that the online help is a LOT better with Windows 7.