It’s no big secret that many Web experts have considered Microsoft’s Vista operating system to be a bit of a bust. The heavier, more processor intensive Vista disappointed many, especially when compared to Windows XP. As for their part, Microsoft continues to insist that Vista has been a success, though the company seems to be rushing to roll out their new operating system, Windows 7, as quickly as possible.
Windows 7, which has already been released in beta format for user testing, is designed to replace Vista, and reestablish Microsoft’s dominance as the operating system of choice worldwide. The Vista debacle hurt Microsoft in both market share and prestige, and many pundits agree that it single-handedly helped raise Apple’s market share as computer users searched for an alternative.
Obviously, even if they publicly deny Vista’s problems, Microsoft is very aware of the public discontent with the operating system, and the company has designed Windows 7 as a more user-friendly environment for the PC. There are several interesting differences between Vista and Windows 7, but one of the most talked about features is the ability “switch off” unneeded Windows programs.
The Windows Features tab in Windows 7 will allow users to disable everything from the Windows Media Player, to Microsoft Internet Explorer 8. Likewise, Windows Search, .NET Framework, and other extras can be switched off by simply un-checking a button in the Windows Features application.
The ability to quickly — and easily — disable unneeded Windows services and features will help ensure that Windows 7 is less processor intensive and runs “lighter” than Vista.
However, disabling a Windows application does not remove or uninstall the program from the user’s computer; rather, the program will simply not be preloaded during Windows start-up, and will therefore be unavailable for use until the user re-enables it using the Windows features application again.
It’s also interesting to note that Microsoft 7 installs by default with all of the most common Windows applications, including Internet Explorer 8 and Windows Media Player. In fact, less computer savvy users may not even realize they have the option to turn off many of these Windows programs, as the Windows Features application is not exactly easy to locate to begin with.
All in all, the Windows Features menu is a welcome addition to Microsoft’s new operating system, and one that has been needed for many years now. This option should help Windows 7 to run smoother and allows the end-user more freedom of choice in regards to what types of media players, Web browsers and other applications they prefer to use.
