On Thursday, October 22, Microsoft will be releasing its new operating system, Windows 7. Windows 7 is intended to be a more focused, incremental upgrade to the Windows line, with the goal of being fully compatible with applications and hardware with which Windows Vista is already compatible. Windows 7, much like Windows Vista, comes in three different editions for the end-user: Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows 7 Professional, and Windows 7 Ultimate. For more information on Windows 7 and the different editions, please visit: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/default.aspx.
ITS is currently in the process of compatibility testing for Windows 7 and ITS-supported applications for Windows. We recommend that users wait until we have certified Windows 7 for these applications and can be fully supported by ITS.
If you are currently a Windows XP user planning to upgrade to Windows 7, Microsoft does not recommend it. Upgrading to Windows 7 from XP requires users to "to back up your current files and settings, perform a custom (clean) installation, and then reinstall your files, settings, and programs." For more information regarding upgrades, please visit http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/upgrade-advisor.aspx
If you are planning to purchase new hardware with Windows 7 installed, make sure that the system meets the minimum requirements outlined by Microsoft: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/system-requirements.aspx
ITS is diligently working on completing the application certification process to fully support Windows 7. In addition, we are also working on the Microsoft licensing package for WCMC. At this time, we strongly discourage departments from purchasing individual Windows 7 licenses.