If you’ve been holding on to that old computer because you didn’t want to give up Windows XP, we have good news. Windows 7 is simpler to use, more responsive, and full of new possibilities. So take the plunge – we did. At LAN Systems, we are using Windows 7 on our desktops and have some favorite features that we would like to share with you.
Backup and Restore
Greatly improved for Windows 7, Backup and Restore gives you peace of mind that your critical files are preserved. You can easily select your important files or let Windows choose what to backup. Libraries are an easy way to collect files that may be scattered throughout your PC. Choose a backup schedule and you can be confident that your data is preserved.
Be sure that you backup to a drive other than the one that contains Windows. So if you don’t have more than one hard drive installed, use a DVD or external hard drive. If you have Windows 7 Professional or Ultimate, you can backup to a network drive so that the network backup will also duplicate a copy of your files.
Windows Search
Quick and efficient describes the new Windows 7 Search. No longer will you search in vain for where you saved that last document. You’ll be able to find more things in more places—and do it faster. Libraries allow you to organize your documents into a single virtual location.
Start typing into the Start menu search box, and you’ll instantly see a list of documents, pictures, music, and e-mail that meet your criteria. Narrow the search by date, file type and other categories you select. Highlighted keywords and text snippets show matches that you can easily scan.
Snipping Tool
If you like the Print Screen tools, you are going to love the Snipping Tools. Use to make a training document, step-by-step instructions or show examples of what you are seeing. After you capture a snip, you can write or draw on or around the snip image. This allows your own personal notes without bringing the capture into Paint or Word.
It’s easy to send the snip with your notes, just click on Send Snip and choose the email recipient or location to send.
Sticky Notes
These notes will never fall off the monitor and lodge behind the desk. Windows 7 Sticky Notes are one of the most useful and fun desktop enhancements. Organize your to-do list, tasks, notes and phone messages. You can always edit the text, change its color and speedily resize, collapse, and flip through notes.
If you use a Tablet PC or a touchscreen, Windows 7 Sticky Notes support pen and touch input, too—you can even switch between different input methods within the space of a single note. Sticky Notes is available in the Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate editions of Windows 7.
Desktop Themes
Windows 7 has eye-catching themes for every occasion. The graphics are vibrant and new. You can choose beautiful landscapes and nature backgrounds or modern, surprising themes that every passerby will admire. No matter what taste, there is something for everyone.
Themes and screen savers can display slide shows. Window border colors and sound schemes are part of your theme. Choose the theme as it is or add your personal touch. Need more choices, download free themes from the Personalization Gallery.
Let us know about your favorites and you could be featured in our Windows 7 series. Send your story to mary@lansystems.com.
For more computer support and technology topics visit LAN Systems at: http://www.lansystems.com/technotes.html
My journey has taken me many places I never imagined - from a family driving school business, to a dairy farm, to an engineering degree, to parenting two teenage girls. My first position after completing my electrical engineering degree was at Commonwealth Edison in transmission line design. After returning to Atlanta, I accepted a temporary position as a support engineer at Advanced Control Systems. It was a 3-month contract that lasted 10 years and I was promoted to department manager at ACS.. Now at LAN Systems, I still devote myself to providing support without compromise. My goal is to make LAN Systems known to all as the best IT Solutions and Service provider in the metro Atlanta area. Still committed to providing exceptional support that serves the needs of the people that use technology, I work with our engineers to improve their problem solving and interpersonal skills. In addition to my responsibilities with LAN Systems, I volunteer with several non-profits that serve the electric utility industry and introduce engineering as a career to young people.Technology is almost as awesome as people and look forward to exploring many “technology for the people” topics at AtlantaSmall.biz.
