skip to main content

The Kitchen Table

XP vs Windows 7

13 years ago

I am getting a new Dell computer tomorrow, hopefully!!

I have used XP for years. This computer comes with Windows 7. What are the major differences? Is it going

to be rough to learn for this old mamaw? Don't get really technical I wouldn't understand!! LOL

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (12)

OklaMoni
13 years ago
Let me know, what you find out. I have XP as well, and am looking for a new computer, lap top this time.

I really think, that it won't be to much of a challenge, but let me know your experience please.

Moni
Holly_ON
13 years ago
I just converted to Windows 7 from XP. I have only used it briefly but am finding it fairly intuitive. Did need some technical help though with moving my embroidery programs over and my printer that was twenty years old and too reliable to do without for black and white copies. The problem there was getting a compatible USB bi directional cable that was needed. I was planning on keeping the old computer but don't think I will.
Related Discussions
How Can I Get Windows 7 To Accept XP Programs?
Q
Comments (1)
certain versions of windows 7 have the ability to run xp with in 7 in a virtual mode so that you can then run your old programs that way. The best suggestion is to try to communicate with the programs creators to see if there is a version or an update that will make it compatible many do have an update. If you have windows 7 home premium it does not have that xp function but you still can run a virtual machine set up with in windows 7 and run your programs that way. You would need to read up and understand how to set up and run a virtual machine, there are some free versions available. Make older programs run in this version of Windows Windows XP Mode Windows XP Mode Learn to Use Windows 7's Compatibility Mode with Older Apps there are a few links you may want to check out.
...See More
XP Windows upgrade to 32-Bit Windows 7
Q
Comments (7)
When you speak of upgrading "my Dell computer", you're not speaking of installing an upgrade over top of XP are you? If so, I misunderstand, so disregard the rest of my post. :) So I'm assuming you intend to purchase a retail version of Windows 7 and do a clean install. In the first line of your post you mention 512 MB of RAM, a date, and then 2.00 GB of RAM. Does that mean it now has 2.00 GB of RAM or maybe 2 1/2 GB of RAM? Either way, I'm no expert but I'd think 512 MB is less than enough, but either 2 or 2 1/2 GB would be fine. I don't know much about Office, but wasn't Office 2003 was the last version that had the old style menu, before the newfangled ribbon came along. According to this, your Office 2002 would not be compatible but according to this, Office 2003 would be. Would your 2002 macros work in 2003? I don't know. Would it be worth the expense of buying a retail version of Windows 7, as well as Office 2003(or at least Word)? To me, probably not, to you, only you can decide. Personally, since it works, I'd probably just continue using it. Continue running a good real-time AV, occasionally scanning with a couple on-demand malware tools(Malwarebytes and SuperAntiSpyware come to mind), use Firefox or Chrome(lie detected), using the WOT add-on(trusting it somewhat less than fully), and being careful what I open(email) and what I install. Just my opinion though. Edit: GrammerGrammar Edit2: Spelling This post was edited by chuggerguy on Thu, Jan 23, 14 at 3:10
...See More
Window 7 Starter or XP on Dell Mini 10 ?
Q
Comments (5)
Starter Edition seems to work fine on computers I've seen it on.. Equal in speed to or faster than other versions with minimal memory. It seems to be just missing some options \ Manufacturers like a toshiba I noticed probably all ship third party options to replace the missing components and wallpapers and things most home users would need... installed & on seperate DvD
...See More
NAS - what to consider - does it matter if pc is xp or windows 7
Q
Comments (4)
Pkponder - thank you for asking your son-in-law on my behalf. It may come to that. Glad to know the Windows version of my main desktop doesn't matter in terms of the NAS. I am going to use a Tivo to retrieve digital data for playing on the television. At this point, I think Tivo's can play Tivo format (which is how I record and store my video) and mpegs. I believe the Tivo is DNLA compliant device. I barely know what that is, but I think it means it can transfer different file formats. I know that I can view my digital pictures, videos and music on my television by retrieving them with my Tivo. I can also play the videos on my laptop. I have Tivo desktop software plus which can transcode any of the tivo videos to a format that can played on Ipads and ipods. Of course, I would have to change the format first. Maybe an NAS can do some of that on the fly - I have no idea. I don't think on the fly video transfer to Ipad and Ipod is that important. If my daughter is home, she has plenty of alternatives for viewing video. And if she wants to load her apple devices for travel, then we have time to get them to the right format. I think the Synology comes with it's own network operating system (which I think is some type of linux distribution). My question on the Raid will be what type. I'll have to learn the difference between Raid 0,1,5 and whatever else there is, so I can choose the appropriate type for me. Thanks. Lynn.
...See More
vala55
13 years ago
All I have heard about Windows 7 has been good. There are always annoying things because they move and rename things for a reason I can't figure out. I talked to a woman yesterday who just went from XP to 7 and she said it's fine. The problem I would have with what you have chosen is DELL, laptop and custom made. LOL I have a terrible time typing comfortably with my laptop and I would be lost without the recovery CDs that I get for ready made PCs. This old dog can learn new tricks, but prefer my comfortable desktop.
cynic
13 years ago
It's different but has some improved features. It's what Vista should have been but Microsoft is always behind the times. I have machines with XP, Vista and 7 and going back and forth you need to remember how to do things on each one since they are different but not a big thing. Think of it like going from a Chev to a Ford. Basically do the same things, just the controls operate a little differently.

There's a lot of sites out there with tips and tricks for them all. I tend to tweak a lot too. Haven't tweaked 7 too much yet. Not using it that much just yet.

The best thing I've seen on 7 is the improvement to System Restore. Dramatic improvement. Again, working they way it should have on Vista and for that matter, on XP.
aggiewife
13 years ago
I've had 7 for a few months now and my biggest gripe is that most of my programs that I use the most, aren't 7 compatible. Anybody have any solutions for that?
monica_pa Grieves
13 years ago
I know I do miss my SimTower.
joann23456
13 years ago
Aggiewife, if you have (or upgrade to) Windows 7 Professional, you are eligible to download Windows XP Mode, which will allow to you run all your old XP programs.

I've had XP for almost a year now, and I like it a lot. There are some differences, but it's pretty intuitive.

Here is a link that might be useful: Virtual PC
Marcia Thornley
13 years ago
I used XP at work and 7 at home. Not to big a difference. You shouldn't have any trouble adjusting to it.
User
13 years ago
I have XP., Vista, and windows 7.I loved XP, not so much Vista and don't use 7 much since it's on the laptop and I'm usually on the desk top. Husband loves 7.
molly109
13 years ago
I have a new computer with Windows 7 -- and I love
it. There are far fewer "slow-downs" than XP had.

I never had Vista on my own computer, so didn't use
it enough to compare.

I still think 98 was the best operating system ever. LOL
ravencajun Zone 8b TX
13 years ago
google make windows 7 look like xp to give some good tips and tricks also visit these forums to get a head start
Windows 7 Forums
jamieron082
11 years ago
Hi, there!! I want to connect my computer to LAN through router or telnet command. But when I try to establish connection it says that some commands are missing which stop the working of router and unable to send further commands..Any help.

Here is a link that might be useful: windows xp tricks

Related Stories

EXTERIORS Window Wizardry: 7 Clever Approaches to Privacy

By Rebecca Naughtin Architect

Do you want more privacy without losing your view or feeling boxed in? Take a look at these creative building solutions

WINDOW TREATMENTS 7 Window Treatments That Can Lower Your Energy Bills

Beautify your windows, keep your home cool and reduce energy use all at once with the right covering

BEDROOMS 7 Tips for Placing a Bed in Front of a Window

Whether it's the only option or just the best one, here's what to do with a window behind the bed

LIFE 7 Things to Do Before You Move Into a New House

By Bud Dietrich, AIA

Get life in a new house off to a great start with fresh paint and switch plates, new locks, a deep cleaning — and something on those windows

HOUZZ TOURS Houzz Tour: Edwardian Flat Opens Up for More Light and Better Flow

By Jennifer Quail

Removing 7 walls and adding clerestory windows brighten this 1905 San Francisco home and propel it into modern times

Lodge Love: 7 Ways to Land the Look

By The Lettered Cottage

LIGHTING So You Bought a Cave: 7 Ways to Open Your Home to Light

By Alison Hodgson

Make the most of the natural light your house does have — and learn to appreciate some shadows, too

HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR HOUSE 7 Pro Lighting Tips for Budding Home Photographers

By David Duncan Livingston

Learn how to control daylight and artificial light to get high-quality home photos even if you're just starting out

ORANGE 7 Spicy Hot Color Palettes to Fire Up a Living Room

By Jennifer Ott Design

Hues on the fiery end of the spectrum can add spark and intensity to living room walls, furniture and accent pieces

REMODELING GUIDES 7 Details for the Well-Dressed House

By Bud Dietrich, AIA

Jewelry for your home: trim, awnings, shutters, lights, cupolas and more

Sponsored

More Discussions

Let's start a chain reaction game -- Part 4

259

Can we start a Chain Reaction Game - Part 4

305

Flora Floof! Garden Goodies!

12

Wednesday's Daily Quiz

9

Hope everyone in areas where severe weather is forecasted

5