Windows 7 includes major versions of Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate. Below is specific information about these versions.
Windows 7 Starter is the Windows 7 version with the least features. It only has 32bit version and no Windows Aero. Desktop wallpapers cannot be changed or customized. Microsoft originally intended to limit users of this version to only run 3 applications simultaneously, then this limit was removed. Windows 7 Starter is preinstalled on computers, especially netbooks, Windows tablets, through computer manufacturers using OEM licenses.
Main features of Windows 7 Starter:
- Compatibility of widely used applications and devices
- Safe, reliable and supported
- The Home Group makes it easy to share documents, documents and printers across multiple computers in the office without a domain.
- Improved taskbar and Jump Lists
Windows 7 Home Basic is available in more than 141 countries. It has several Windows Aero options and some new features. Home Basic is a special version, released for emerging countries, so it along with some other versions sold in these markets are geographically restricted, that is, users. Windows must be enabled in a certain region or country.
Main features of Windows 7 Home Basic:
- All the above functions in Starter edition.
- 'Live thumbnail' preview mode and enhanced image experience.
- Enhanced network support (especially ad-hoc wireless network and internet connection sharing)
- Mobility Center is also included in this edition.
This version has features aimed at home users, such as Windows Media Center, Windows Aero and multi-touch support. It includes both 32bit and 64bit versions.
Main features of Windows 7 Home Premium:
- All functions mentioned above of Starter and Home Basic
- Aero Glass and advanced window navigation
- Make connection and sharing for all computers and devices easily.
- Improved media format support,
- Multi-touch and improved handwriting recognition.
Windows 7 Professional is a version for people who regularly work with computers, small business users and schools. It includes all the features of Windows 7 Home Premium and adds the ability to participate in a Windows Server domain. Supports up to 192GB RAM, can act as a remote control server, backup to a network location, Encrypting File System, Presentation Mode, Software Restriction Policies, Windows XP mode and also 32bit version, 64bit.
Main features of Windows 7 Professional:
- All functions mentioned above in Starter, Home Basic and Home Premium
- Domain Join creates simplicity and security for the server network.
- Encrypted file system (EFS) protects data with advanced network backup capabilities.
- Location Aware Printing helps to find the right printer when moving between office and home.
This version of Windows 7 targets business customers, it is sold through licensing for companies with software warranty contracts with Microsoft. Windows 7 Enterprise adds features such as: Multilingual User Interface (MUI) package, BitLocker Drive Encryption, and UNIX application support. This version is not retail for ordinary users, but is distributed through Microsoft Software Assurance and activated with VLK.
Main features of Windows 7 Enterprise:
- All functions mentioned above in Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium and Professional.
- BitLocker protects data on removable storage devices (like USB)
- DirectAccess links users to shared resources without a virtual private network (VPN).
- BranchCache makes it easier to open files and Web pages from an office branch.
- AppLocker easily limits unauthorized software and allows for greater security.
Windows 7 Ultimate has the same features as Enterprise but it is available for individual users. When using versions like Home Premium or Pro, users can upgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate via Windows Anytime Upgrade. This version does not come with Windows Ultimate Extras or any other proprietary features.
Last words
With this article, I hope you will find useful information about the versions of Windows 7 and the differences between its editions.
See more: