Q. I heard Microsoft released the Windows 7 operating system Oct. 22. When will it be available for individual purchase?
Microsoft is expected to make the Windows 7 software available mid-November at the earliest for academic/educational purchasing, said Chris Loehr, manager of the K-State Student Union Computer Store. He said there are a few points that K-Staters should note:
- Academic versions of Windows 7, unlike previous Microsoft products, will only be available to people at schools that have a student-licensing agreement, which K-State has. Any K-State student or employee with a valid K-State eID can get the educational discount. (Those at other educational institutions without the licensing agreement cannot purchase the software through K-State.)
- K-Staters who wish to purchase Windows 7 at the academic/education price must present a current, valid K-State ID.
- Departmental purchases of Windows 7 should be done through the university contract with SHI (see the “Software, Large Acc Reseller” contract #07359 link on the K-State Purchasing Contracts webpage) .
Q. What Windows 7 versions are available?
There are three for individuals — Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate. See Microsoft’s Windows 7 comparison chart for details.
The SHI contract for departments has Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate.
Q. How much will Windows 7 cost?
Continue reading “Q/A: Windows 7 purchasing options, cost, security, etc.”
