Updated: July 9, 2020 (April 25, 2011)

Windows Client Overview

As managing vice president, Rob Helm covers Microsoft collaboration and content management. His 25-plus years of experience analyzing Microsoft’s technology... more

The current Windows client release is Windows 7 SP1, which became generally available in Feb. 2011. This first service pack for Windows 7 is a common service pack shared with Windows Server 2008 R2 and adds dynamic memory and RemoteFX to improve virtualization.

The second Vista service pack was released in Apr. 2009. Among other bug and security fixes, Windows Vista SP2 included changes to application compatibility, Bluetooth support, Windows Search, and Blu-ray Disc support for data recording.

Windows XP Mode allows high-end editions of Windows 7 to run Windows XP in a virtual machine, for application availability. It was updated with SP1, but not included; therefore, it still requires a separate download.

Microsoft released Internet Explorer (IE) 9 in Mar. 2011. This release of IE includes increased performance with graphics and JavaScript and improves privacy with support for “Do Not Track,” to reduce the information sent to advertising Web sites. It runs on Windows Vista and Windows 7, but does not run on Windows XP. IE8 continues to ship as part of Windows 7 (which cannot run older versions of IE).

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now