Other subtle improvements include the fact that the New Folder button is now available from all explorer Windows, not just inside the organise' drop down.
The interaction with the icons at the right of the tasks bar is another massive improvement for Windows 7 over Vista. Now, most of them are hidden away so that you're not bothered by too many flashing distractions. Our favourite aspect is simply how you join a Wi-Fi network. In Vista you have to click the confusing network icon, then click Connect or disconnect', you then have to scroll down an awkward list of detected networks and double click to enter the security key.
In Windows 7, one click on the improved network icon brings up a full list of all detected networks with signal strengths, which you can scroll through without having to move the mouse you then just double click the chosen hot spot to gain entry.
Multi-monitor support is also very easy and intuitive in Windows 7. It's easier to use and does a far better job at choosing the correct native resolution of your monitors.
Our favourite little Windows 7 enhancement is the Window Snap feature. Using the Windows key and arrow key together lets you snap your Windows to either side of your monitor and organise them, which is so handy you wonder why no one had thought of it before.
Overall, there so many small enhancements in the Windows 7 user interface that it kicks Vista in the teeth. Hard and long. Windows XP at least has the excuse of being eight years old whereas Vista just feels unfinished.
Winner: Windows 7
-
Asus ZenScreen Fold OLED MQ17QH reviewReviews A stunning foldable 17.3in OLED display – but it's too expensive to be anything more than a thrilling tech demo
-
How the UK MoJ achieved secure networks for prisons and offices with Palo Alto NetworksCase study Adopting zero trust is a necessity when your own users are trying to launch cyber attacks
-
Microsoft angers admins as April Patch Tuesday delivers password feature without migration guidanceNews Security fixes include a zero day exploited by a ransomware group and seven critical flaws
-
Managing a late migrationOpinion When it comes to moving from Windows 7 to Windows 10, it's better late than never
-
How to set up a Windows 7 emulator for Windows 10Tutorials A complete guide for setting up a Windows 7 emulator for Windows 10 so you don’t lose access to your apps
-
The autopsy of Windows 7
In-depth Report of a postmortem examination
-
The IT Pro Podcast: Farewell Windows 7IT Pro Podcast We reflect on the legacy of one of Microsoft's most enduringly popular operating systems
-
Windows 7 ends: what do you do next?
In-depth From SMBs to big business and individuals, after 10 years it's time to move on from Windows 7
-
Windows 7 end of life: What to do if you haven't upgraded yetIn-depth Microsoft has now officially moved Windows 7 to end of life, meaning it's no longer a viable business platform
-
Windows 10 vs Windows 8.1 vs Windows 7 - Microsoft OS head-to-headVs We pit Microsoft's most popular operating systems against each other to see which is the greatest of all time
