The newest Windows operating system is being released on October 22. There are some things that you should know.

Firstly, don’t do anything… yet. Initial reviews on this new operating system are very good. We’ve tried it out in our office and it seems to run faster and have fixed many of the problems people were facing with the disastrous Windows Vista operating system.

Windows 7 has a much cleaner and easier-to-use interface for users. It is designed to boot up computers quicker, be more stable and generally more user-friendly. That includes new Calculator and Paint applications, and much improved trouble shooting capabilities when there are problems.

The reason I say not to do anything yet is we’ve always found the best approach with new operating systems and other Microsoft software is to wait for the bugs to get ironed out. While Windows 7 has undergone extensive trials and testing, there are always issues that need to be fixed with subsequent updates.

We recommend that you allow other companies to experience these bugs first and get them fixed before you dive in. You will also want to be patient for compatibility reasons. Frequently other vendors take a while to get their software updated so it works with a new operating system. You don’t want to upgrade your computers and then find out you can’t print any longer or your business-specific software won’t work.

We have been recommending our clients stay with Windows XP and not upgrade to Vista. We suggest you continue that approach until at least the New Year.

Many new computers you buy will include a license to upgrade to Windows 7. That means that once you’re ready so you won’t have to go buy it.

So… hold off on the temptation to change things because there is something shiny and new out there. If you really must see it, give us a call and we can show it to you on one of our computers before you make the switch.

For more advice on the security, performance and reliability of your computer network, come to our Reboot & Refocus Boot Camp on October 20 at the Toronto Board of Trade. Visit www.rebootandrefocus.com for more information.