As the Microsoft Marketing Machine kicks into high gear for Windows 7 (the successor to Windows Vista), planned for release later this year, I wanted to lend insight and answer a handful of questions I've recently been asked.

At Hawaii Kai Computer Guy, we often participate in beta test programs for new operating systems and applications. This means that we preview and work with a given hardware or software product to provide valuable commentary to the manufacturer about usability, performance and general feedback.

I can say that so far, Windows 7 is looking like a really good operating system. However, there are also some important factors to consider before upgrading your current computer (or purchasing a new one that includes it).

As usual, I recommend waiting at least 9 to 12 months before using a new operating system on your primary computer. Whether Microsoft, Apple or any of the other less-known vendors, there are always errors (bugs) that require an update/patch from the manufacturer, and this period provides enough time for them to address the urgent matters relating to stability and data integrity.

Windows 7 is Microsoft's biggest user-interface overhaul since Windows 95. It's no surprise that even Windows veterans may require an induction on how to use it. However, like Windows 95, it's a breath of fresh air!

There are a several interface and appearance improvements, both major and minor. However, the focus of this article isn't about enhancements; it's about whether it is a good enough product to consider purchasing.

Microsoft's goal in the mid-nineties, beginning with Windows 95, was to consistently improve and offer modern versions of their Windows operating system every three years. That tone was set when Windows 98 appeared as promised and WindowsXP just a few years afterwards. However, WindowsXP had the limelight to itself for nearly six years - double the time of its predecessors.

If you look past WindowsXP, from Windows Vista forward to Windows 7, with three years in-between, Windows XP then becomes the anomaly. Still, it served the important function of allowing enough time for both consumers and corporate clients to migrate so now most of the world is using a single operating system. This makes it much easier for both hardware and software developers to create stable and compelling products.

Unlike its predecessor, Windows 7 is intended to be an incremental upgrade from Vista, with the goal of being fully compatible with device drivers, applications, and hardware with which Windows Vista is already compatible. Presentations given by Microsoft have focused on multi-touch support, a redesigned interface, a simplified home networking system called HomeGroup, and performance improvements.

These days Windows Vista has become a good product. While it initially received an onslaught of bad press - some valid, some not - it has matured rapidly into a stable operating system that offers several advantages in key areas over WindowsXP.

While anything can happen before the release of a final product, it does appear that Windows 7 has learned a lot from the Windows Vista fiasco and is determined to win back the hearts of computer users. I think it is well on its way!

Check back next month when I share some of the features that set it apart from Windows Vista and Windows XP. I'm going to give details on how you can get the "look and feel" of Windows 7 on your Windows Vista or Windows XP system without upgrading!

Daniel Allen is the Lead Support Specialist for Hawaii Kai Computer Guy. The company provides "LIVE" Technical Support for Any Operating System/Application, FREE On-Site Service and EXCEPTIONAL Customized Computer Education. For more information visit www.HawaiiKaiComputerGuy.com or call (808) 356-0672. For article suggestions, please email eos@hawaiikaicomputerguy.com.