Codename: Longhorn

The next Windows release, planned in 2005, is codenamed Longhorn. Longhorn is supposedly built on both NT5.5 (Windows XP) code and a couple of new revelations from Micro$oft. I won’t get into all of these, because I don’t like getting into BS — its not pleasant. Anyway, Longhorn key features include a database-driven journaling filesystem (WinFS), a new GUI (codenamed: Aero) with some cool new features, and a set of easier-to-understand configuration dialogues and screens. I have taken the liberty of testing out the latest avaliable build of Longhorn, 4029, to see what the talk is all about. I have also been sure to provide plenty of screenshots. Remember, though, that this is a preview of an Alpha version of Windows and that many features have yet to be implemented.

Installing Longhorn

To install Longhorn, you will need to have a free partition on your computer with about 3 gigabytes of free hard drive space, although more is preferable. Longhorn is a very bulky OS at this point. Also, do not even attempt to upgrade your current XP system to Longhorn, because I will guarantee you that you will ruin both your XP and your Longhorn installations. Basically, you insert the CD-ROM into the CD drive and boot from the CD. A text-only loading screen will appear and then a colorful installation interface will appear. It is laid out simply and is designed for ease of use. Everything is centered. The first screen states that “you will need to answer some questions and after that you can leave installation unattended.” The next screen asks for a serial number. Once validated, you will be redirected to a screen asking where you want to install Longhorn. Then, if all goes well, you can leave your computer alone until Longhorn is finished installing. That’s right, folks — no more wasted time attending to pointless installation dialogues. This is certainly one of the best new features of Longhorn that directly steals from the MacOS “one-click” install.