Q: I want to know the difference
between Windows 7 and Windows 8. I wanted to buy a laptop and I was asked which
one I wanted. – Shola A.
Answer:
Windows 8 is the latest iteration of the Microsoft
Operating system software for computers and tablets, while Windows 7 is the
predecessor that is targeted at computers and a few tablets.
The major difference between the two versions is the New
Metro tiles that is somewhat of a replacement for the traditional desktop
interface you see when your computer boots up.
The change also includes the omission of the traditional
start button in Windows 8, and a host of other minute changes.
The Windows 8 operating system software was designed as a
touch-centric interface which means you will get maximum feel of its features
when you interact with it with your fingers rather than with a mouse or other
pointing device.
This also informed the release of the Windows 8 RT which
is the version that runs on tablet devices that are usually powered by ARM
processors (low-powered processors that generate significantly less heat and
can do without fans and giant heat sinks).
Laptops that have been shipped from the first quarter of
2013 come pre-installed with Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro or Windows 8 Enterprise
(unless in the case of a custom order) and any laptop you see with Windows 7
(Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate)
installed was manufactured before the final release of Windows 8 in the fourth
quarter of 2012.
The above should not be confused with another line of
products by the same publisher – Windows Phone 7 and Windows Phone 8. These are
mobile operating system software that runs on certain smartphones and tablets
only. They are distinct from the Windows 7 and Windows 8 (which runs on
desktops, laptops and some tablets), besides the similarities in their names.
As is the case with every new operating system software,
there are compatibility issues with tons of software that have been in
existence before the arrival of the new platform (Windows 8) and as such, we
advise that you do a search on the internet to know the compatibility issues of
the specialized software you plan to make use of before deciding on whether to
go with the flow or maintain the status quo (in this case, Windows XP, Windows
Vista, Windows 7).
As time goes on, publishers of software release updates
and patches that seek to make their software compatible with the latest
platforms available so as to remain competitive. So, this is an added bonus,
but if you have to get work done in the immediate, there are instructions all
over (if you are adventurous) that will help you partition your hard drive and
install Windows 7 alongside your Windows 8-powered laptop, so that you enjoy
the best of both worlds (or find an expert that knows about it, if you dare not
dabble into such).
Note that there is no one that is better than the other,
the publisher of the software just improves on the previous one, slaps a new
label on it and campaigns for you and I to come pay for their hard work. This,
we do gladly because their product makes our work easier.
Other publishers of operating system software include;
• Apple – MAC OS,
iOS (for mobile devices – ipod, iphone, ipad)
• Google – Chrome
OS, Android OS (for mobile devices – smartphones, tablets, certain netbooks)
Please send your questions and feedbacks to
mail@pcfixnigeria.com or call/text 08136829595.
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