Product Version

Product Background

Key Features

Availability

Windows 7 Starter

A limited functionality SKU with an application limit designed for small notebook PCs in all markets.

• Up to 3 concurrent applications (removed as of June 1, 2009)

• Ability to join a Home Group

• Microsoft will offer Windows 7 Starter for Small Notebook PCs worldwide. This SKU will have specific hardware requirements.

• In Emerging Markets, Microsoft will also make available Windows 7 Starter for systems meeting the broader value PC hardware criteria (e.g. current Windows Vista Starter specification).

Windows 7 Home Basic

The entry-level SKU for value PCs in emerging markets, meant for accessing the Internet and running basic productivity applications.

• No limit on the number of concurrent applications.

• Live thumbnail previews and enhanced visual experience.

• Advanced networking support (ad-hoc wireless networks and Internet connection sharing)

Windows 7 Home Basic will be available only in Emerging Markets.

Windows 7 Home Premium

The standard consumer SKU, providing full functionality on the latest hardware, easy ways to connect, and a visually-rich environment.

• Aero Glass and advanced Windows navigation.

• Easy networking & sharing across multiple PCs and devices.

• Improved media format support, enhancements to Windows Media Center and media streaming, including Play To.

• Multi-touch and improved handwriting recognition on systems with the required hardware.

Windows 7 Home Premium will be available worldwide in all markets.

Windows 7 Professional

The business-focused SKU for companies who have advanced networking, backup, and security needs.

• Ability to join a managed network with Domain Join.

• Protect data with advanced network backu and Encrypted File System.

• Print to the right printer at home / work with Location Aware Printing.

Windows 7 Professional will be available worldwide in all markets.

Windows 7 Ultimate

The no-compromise SKU for tech enthusiasts.

• New security and network access features in the Windows 7 Enterprise edition.

• Includes DirectAccess, which connects users directly to their corporate network and access files securely from any PC, mobile phone or other Internet-connected device.

• Includes BranchCache, which makes it faster to open files and web pages from a branch office.

• Multi-language packs and language switching capability.

Windows 7 Ultimate will be available worldwide in all markets.

Page

Topic

1

• Introduction
• Windows 7 Product Map

2

• Two Primary Versions

3

• Specialized SKUs

4

• Windows 7 In Europe
• Windows 7 SKUs In Europe

5

• Concurrent App Limit In Windows 7 Starter
• Windows 7 Starter Vs. Windows 7 Home Premium

6

• System Hardware Requirements

7

• Max. Hardware Specs. For Small Notebook PCs
• New Hardware Limitations & Comparison

8

• Windows 7 SKU Summary

9

• Easy Upgrades
• Developed Market Restrictions
• Windows 7 Pricing Details
• More Windows 7 Information