Simple question

[k9bliss]

Looking to build a new computer, The OS is got me torn between old XP and Win 7 Home 64bit. I'm doing a lot of photo editing in Photoshop CS5 and NickSoftware. I need some direction? Thanks.

[mjkovis]

By sticking with Windows XP 32-bit you would limit your new system to the maximum amount of RAM the OS would recognize. I would suggest going ahead with Windows 7 64-bit. Photoshop loves to use as much memory as you can give it.

I absolutely love it. It is installed on my workstation at the office and my laptop and I use Photoshop religiously.

The only "pro" I see to sticking with Windows XP is that if you already have a valid license of the OS available to install and want to save some money by installing it instead of purchasing Win7.

[glc]

If you have legacy software you need to run that will not run on Win 7, get Win 7 Pro which supports "XP Mode".

[k9bliss]

Would you purchase OEM or Full 32/64 version?

[mjkovis]

Originally Posted by k9bliss Would you purchase OEM or Full 32/64 version?

OEM Win7 64-bit. No need to pay all the extra money for a retail version that is no different.

As glc mentioned, purchase the Pro version if you want legacy support.

[k9bliss]

Win 7 Pro 64bit, the OEM set up is ok for new build. You get the full support from MS with this OS?
Thanks.

[strollin]

OEM means NO support from MS. Support comes from the builder, in this case, you.

[k9bliss]

Do you still get update?When you say me as for support, it means that I have to do the problem solving and tech support. There is no telephone or IT support, correct? If so wouldn't it be better to buy the full version to get that support?

[strollin]

Yes, you still get updates but no telephone support. Only you can say whether you need that type of support from MS. I personally have never called MS for support.

[mjkovis]

Originally Posted by k9bliss Do you still get update?When you say me as for support, it means that I have to do the problem solving and tech support. There is no telephone or IT support, correct? If so wouldn't it be better to buy the full version to get that support?

Minus IT support from Microsoft for their products there is absolutely NO difference between OEM and the retail packaged software version of any Windows OS. Personally, I feel you are basically paying more for the extra packaging and manual that comes with the retail product.

I cannot even recall ever needing to call their support line nor have I ever heard from someone that has used their IT support line.

The OEM version will work just fine (unless you receive the disc scratched or broken).