MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7
Chapter 1
Introduction to Windows 7
At a Glance
Instructor’s Manual Table of Contents

Overview

Objectives

Teaching Tips

Quick Quizzes

Class Discussion Topics

Additional Projects

Additional Resources

Key Terms
1-1
MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7
1-2
Lecture Notes
Overview
This chapter outlines the versions of Windows 7 and the features available in each. This
information enables users to determine which version is appropriate for their specific needs.
The chapter also introduces new and improved features in Windows 7, including the
updated user interface, hardware requirements, and system hardware support. Updated
features for application support, connectivity applications, and enhanced networking
models are also covered in the chapter.
Chapter Objectives
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Describe the versions of Windows 7
Discuss the new features in Windows 7
Understand the Windows 7 user interface
Define the hardware requirements and understand the hardware support of Windows 7
Describe the application support built in to Windows 7
Identify essential connectivity applications used in Windows 7
Understand the networking models supported by different versions of 7
Teaching Tips
Windows 7 Versions
1. This section describes the following four mainstream versions of Windows 7:
a. Windows 7 Home Premium
b. Windows 7 Professional
c. Windows 7 Enterprise
d. Windows 7 Ultimate
2. This section also describes the following additional specialized versions of Windows 7:
a. Windows 7 Starter
b. Windows 7 Home Basic
c. Windows 7 N & K Editions
Windows 7 Home Premium
1. Explain that Windows 7 Home Premium is for home users who prefer a richer
multimedia experience. Business enhancements such as encrypted files, joining a
domain, and processing Group Policy settings are not available unless the operating
system is upgraded to a business-grade edition.
2. Mention that this version includes the following features:
a. Aero interface
MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
1-3
Support for up to two physical CPUs
Support for tablet PCs and MultiTouch controls
Windows Media Center capabilities
Creation and use of HomeGroups
Windows Mobility Center
Network printing
Internet Connection Sharing
Windows 7 Professional
1. Explain that Windows 7 Professional allows a business to simplify its operations and
concentrate on doing business.
2. Mention that this version includes the following features:
a. 64-bit version supports up to 192 GB RAM
b. Remote Desktop hosting
c. Support for domain networking
d. Location aware printing
e. Dynamic disks
f. Windows XP Mode with Windows Virtual PC
g. Volume licensing
Windows 7 Enterprise
1. Explain that Windows 7 Enterprise is available only to customers who purchase
Software Assurance (SA) from Microsoft.
Teaching
Tip
Read more about Microsoft Software Assurance (SA) at:
www.microsoft.com/licensing/sa/default.mspx.
2. Mention that this version includes the features found in Windows 7 Business and adds:
a. Multiple Language User Interface for companies spanning the globe
b. UNIX-based application support
c. BitLocker Drive Encryption
d. Enhancements to remote corporate data access
Windows 7 Ultimate
1. Explain that Windows 7 Ultimate provides the same feature set as Windows 7
Enterprise, combining all of the features of a home and business operating system. This
is the only retail edition that provides functionality that is closely matched to Windows
7 Enterprise.
Windows 7 Starter
1. Explain that Windows 7 Starter edition is limited in features and reduced in cost to
make it more attractive to buyers of computers with reduced hardware specifications.
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2. Some of the features that this version does not include:
a. Aero Glass interface
b. Support for multiple monitors
c. DVD playback
d. Ability to join a corporate network domain
e. Windows Media Center and media streaming
f. 64-bit version
Windows 7 Home Basic
1. Explain that Windows 7 Home Basic is an operating system capable of running on
limited hardware at a competitive price point.
2. Mention that Windows 7 Home Basic is built on Windows 7 Starter and adds the
following features:
a. Partial Aero functionality
b. Multiple monitor support
c. Windows Mobility Center
d. Network printing
e. Internet connection sharing
f. 64-bit version
Windows 7 N & K Editions
1. Explain that Windows 7 N releases are sold in countries that do not allow Microsoft to
bundle in Windows Media Player and other media software as part of the operating
system.
2. Mention that the K releases are only sold in South Korea and also have some features,
such as Windows Media Player, removed as well.
New and Enhanced Features in Windows 7
1. Explain that Windows 7 includes the following new features:
a. 32- and 64-bit Computing Support
b. Aero interface
c. .NET Framework 3.0
d. Speech Recognition
e. Internet Explorer 7
f. User Account Control
g. Fast User Switching Enhancements
h. Windows Driver Foundation
i. Repair and Restart Improvements
j. Rapid Deployment
k. Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption
l. Trusted Platform Modules Services
m. Network Connectivity
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32- and 64-Bit Computing Support
1. Mention that Windows 7 comes in both 32-bit and 64-bit processor versions. Depending
on the version of Windows 7, the 64-bit editions can support up to 192 GB of RAM and
has a greater theoretical limit for processing data.
2. Define Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor as an utility available from Microsoft to analyze
the suitability of a computer to run Windows 7.
Aero
1. Explain that Aero is the visual theme first introduced with Windows Vista. It offers a
pleasing user experience that is simple, easy to learn, and fun.
2. Describe the hardware and software requirements for Aero, including:
a. Video card with at least 128 MB of RAM (256 MB recommended)
b. Graphics card driver must support a minimum of DirectX9.0c and the new
Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM)
Teaching
Tip
Read more about Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) at:
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa480220.aspx.
.NET Framework 3.5
1. Explain that the .NET Framework defines multiple Application Programming Interfaces
(API) including:
a. Windows Presentation Foundation that allows applications to draw to the screen
b. Windows Communication Foundation that allows applications to communicate
with each other
c. Windows Workflow Foundation that allows developers to build applications that
follow a logical sequence of events
d. Windows CardSpace that protects a user’s digital identities
Teaching
Tip
Read more about the .NET Framework at:
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/netframework/aa663309.aspx.
Speech Recognition
1. Explain that Windows 7 includes speech recognition to add an input method beyond the
keyboard and mouse. The system is trainable, supports spoken corrections, and multiple
languages. Commands to perform typical Windows operations are built in.
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Internet Explorer 8
1. Define Internet Explorer 8 as the newest version of Internet Explorer and includes many
new features such as enhanced private browsing, Compatibility View, and Accelerators.
2. Explain that Internet Explorer 8 enhances the security of Internet browsing by
restricting access to the operating system by default.
User Account Control
1. Explain that the User Account Control system in Windows 7 allows the security level
for an account to be fine-tuned based on how trusted the user and computer
environment are.
2. Mention that instead of using the Run As feature, users can be prompted by Windows 7
for administrator approval.
3. Explain that to avoid frequent administrative prompts, Windows 7 has added new
privileges to the standard user account.
Fast User Switching Enhancements
1. Mention that Windows XP introduced fast user switching, which is the ability for
multiple users to log in to the same computer at the same time. Users can then toggle
between themselves without having to log out or close applications
2. Explain that Windows 7 supports fast user switching in both the workgroup mode and
the domain mode. Windows 7 allows fast user switching even when the computer is
joined to the domain.
Windows Driver Foundation
1. Explain that the Windows Driver Foundation (WDF) architecture defines how device
driver software operates and replaces the older Windows Driver Model (WDM).
2. Mention that with WDM, drivers spend much of their time interacting with the OS
instead of the hardware.
3. Describe the following two hardware levels that driver software can access:
a. Kernel mode
b. User mode
4. Explain that user mode driver architecture is defined under WDF, in addition to kernel
mode drivers. If the user mode driver fails, it can be restarted without causing the core,
or kernel, of the operating system to crash with it.
5. Mention that another advantage of WDF drivers is their support for distributed
computing.
MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7
Teaching
Tip
1-7
For more information about the Windows Driver Foundation (WDF)
architecture, visit: www.microsoft.com/whdc/driver/wdf/default.mspx.
Repair and Restart Improvements
1. Explain that many services that fail in Windows 7 are designed to restart automatically
without significantly disrupting service to the user. If multiple services depend on each
other and one service fails, Windows 7 can restart the affected services without having
to reboot the computer.
2. Mention that a common repair action is to update applications, drivers, and operating
system code.
Rapid Deployment
1. Explain that Windows 7 components are designed to be modular and selectable. The
administrator can decide what components to install at the time of installation.
2. Define Windows Imaging Format (WIM) as a Microsoft technology used to distribute
Windows 7 installation files. The files necessary to install Windows 7 or end user
applications can be compiled into a single WIM file, acting as a library.
Teaching
Tip
For more information about the Windows Imaging Format (WIF), visit:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd799284(WS.10).aspx.
Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption
1. Explain that the BitLocker Drive Encryption feature adds the ability to securely encrypt
the hard drive’s contents at a hardware level.
Trusted Platform Module Service
1. Explain that the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) architecture defines options for
adding firmware and hardware to computers to detect low-level tampering before the
operating system starts.
2. Mention that optional hardware such as smart cards and USB keys holding digital
identification can be used as part of the TPM solution to make sure that stolen
computers can’t be started or have their hard drive decrypted.
Network Connectivity
1. Explain that Windows 7 supports IPv6. Teredo is a software client to support IPv4
to IPv6 translation.
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2. Explain that an operating system and its applications must be aware of the networks
around them. Applications can track what network services are available using the
Network Location Awareness (NLA) service as a central reference. NLA can also
report the status and performance of each network.
3. Mention that the Windows 7 Firewall software has been enhanced to restrict
connections in both directions. Connections can be permitted or restricted.
4. Explain that Windows 7 can assign a new default printer based on the network
location when the network connection is established.
User Interface
1. This section describes the following features:
a. Start button
b. Windows Help and Support
c. Search Interface
d. Gadgets
e. Taskbar
f. Notification Area
g. Advanced Window Management
Start Button
1. Use Figure 1-2 to show the new look of the Start button.
2. Mention that the way the Start menu opens has also changed. The key goal is to stop the
menu from sprawling across the user’s screen. As the user moves from one level to
another, the list above the Start button is replaced with the next selected level’s program
icons. Use Figure 1-3 to illustrate your explanation.
3. Define Jump Lists as a new feature introduced in Windows 7 that identifies what
content was recently opened by an application, or what content is automatically linked
to the menu item.
Windows Help and Support
1. Explain that Windows Help and Support has been designed to include more methods in
one utility to help users find the solution they need. Use Figure 1-4 to illustrate your
explanation.
2. Mention that the Help and Support interface allows users to:
a. Initiate a Remote Assistance call
b. Post a question to a newsgroup
c. Search other databases
d. Look up phone numbers for Microsoft support
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Search Interface
1. Use Figure 1-5 to show the new features of the Search Interface in Windows 7.
Gadgets
1. Explain that Windows 7 allows the user to add Gadgets to the desktop as helpful tools
to aid the user.
2. Define a Gadget as a mini-application that will provide information, perform a useful
task, or link to enhanced Web services such as RSS. In Windows 7, a Gadget can be
placed anywhere on the desktop.
Taskbar
1. Define the taskbar as a horizontal bar located at the bottom of the screen by default. It
contains the Start button to the left and the notification area to the right. In the middle is
an area to keep track of open windows. Use Figure 1-7 to illustrate your explanation.
2. Explain that if the Aero interface is active, instead of a simple list, a preview of each
window the application has open will be displayed above the taskbar button.
3. Mention that taskbar buttons can represent a shortcut to an application, even if it isn’t
actively running.
Notification Area
1. Explain that the notification area is located to the right of the taskbar in the bottom
right-hand side of the Windows 7 screen. Use Figure 1-8 to illustrate your explanation.
2. Mention that the area has been simplified by default to display the clock and icons for
volume, network connectivity, power, and Action Center notifications. The Action
Center notifications list important operating system messages in one convenient place.
3. Other applications can add icons to the notification area, but they are not displayed
automatically.
Advanced Window Management
1. Explain that the Snap feature allows windows to quickly be resized by having the user
click on the title bar of the window and drag it to the top, sides, or middle of the screen.
2. Mention that the Shake feature is only available in versions of Windows 7 that are using
the Aero theme. If a user clicks on the title bar of a window and shakes the mouse from
side to side, all other windows will automatically minimize.
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Quick Quiz 1
1. The ____ system in Windows 7 allows the security level for an account to be finetuned, to the degree required, based on how trusted the user and computer environment
are.
Answer: User Account Control
2. ____ adds the ability to securely encrypt the hard drive’s contents at a hardware level.
Answer: BitLocker Drive Encryption
3. The ____ (TPM) architecture defines options for adding firmware and hardware to
computers to detect low-level tampering before the operating system starts.
Answer: Trusted Platform Module
4. A(n) ____ is considered a mini-application that will provide information, perform a
useful task, or link to enhanced Web services such as RSS.
Answer: Gadget
Hardware Requirements and System Hardware Support
1. Explain that Windows 7 is designed to provide a different look and feel depending on
the version of the operating system and the capabilities of the system’s hardware.
2. Mention that component manufacturers that want their product to be tested with
Windows 7 can submit their solution to the Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL).
Teaching
Tip
Read more about Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) at:
www.microsoft.com/whdc/winlogo/default.mspx.
3. Use Table 1-1 to show the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 7.
Processor Support
1. Explain that program instructions are typically grouped into units of code called
threads. Threads and processes are common terms used to describe what the CPU is
working on.
2. Explain that multitasking gives the appearance that the computer is running multiple
applications or processes at the same time. Preemptive multitasking allows a single
process to be interrupted by another process, even if the first process has not completed.
The time window a thread is allowed to run in is known as a quantum.
MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7
Teaching
Tip
1-11
Read more about multitasking at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_multitasking.
3. Explain that with processor affinity, a thread is restricted to be run by the same CPU.
4. Mention that Windows programs are usually written in a modular nature. Code modules
are saved in Dynamic Link Library files (DLLs). Code modules in the DLLs can be
shared between applications.
5. Explain that multiprocessor systems have more than one physical CPU. Each additional
CPU allows the computer to process instructions in parallel, at the same time.
6. Explain that with Hyper-Threading, CPUs have extra hardware built in to allow more
than one thread to be processed at the same time on a single CPU. Windows 7 includes
support for Hyper-Threading.
7. Mention that threads created by applications can limit themselves so that only one
thread can execute and the CPU cannot use its extra hardware.
8. Explain that with multi-core CPUs, the CPU package physically looks like one CPU,
but internally contains multiple CPU cores. Each CPU core is capable of running its
own thread. Cores share some connections to the rest of the computer, so performance
will occasionally suffer.
Teaching
Tip
Read more about multi-core technology at:
http://www.intel.com/multi-core/.
Plug and Play
1. Explain that plug and play technology assumes that hardware components can be
connected or activated at any time while the operating system is running. The
corresponding device driver will be automatically loaded by the plug and play system,
and the hardware is available for use.
Power Management
1. Explain that computers powered by Windows 7 and meeting the latest hardware power
standards can consume less power than ever before. Power saving is realized by
exposing more power management features to device drivers and allowing those drivers
to better integrate with the operating system.
2. Mention that new low-power sleep modes use a combination of deactivating hardware
components and buffering the current state of the computer to disk.
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Tablet Hardware
1. Mention that Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate
Editions include support for tablet computers.
2. Explain that a tablet computer is similar to a laptop in its portability, but it does not rely
on a traditional keyboard for data entry.
3. Explain that handwriting recognition is improved in Windows 7 so it can learn the
personal writing style of a user. Frequent menu actions can be assigned to specific flicks
of the input pen.
Media Hardware
1. Mention that Windows 7 Home Premium and Ultimate Editions now support Windows
Media Center. Windows Media Center allows the computer to become part of a full
entertainment system.
Multiple Monitor Support
1. Explain that multiple monitor support has been enhanced to enable less user
involvement when multiple displays are detected. Screen hardware can provide EDID
(Extended Display Identification Data) information to the computer about its preferred
resolution and aspect ratio.
2. Mention that video hardware and device driver software installed to operate it must be
compatible with Windows 7 to fully operate as a multi-monitor setup.
Networking Technologies
1. Explain that Windows 7 has redesigned networking support for the large data streams.
2. Explain that in Windows 7, wireless networking built on Wi-Fi standards is considered
native to the operating system. The Network Diagnostic Framework will aid in
automatically diagnosing problems with the wireless connection. In addition, wireless
connections can now be configured with command-line utilities.
Disk Technology
1. Explain that physical disk storage can be connected to a computer internally or
externally using connection technology such as: IDE, SATA, SCSI, or USB.
2. Mention that virtual hard disks are supported by Windows 7.
Disk Partition Styles
1. Explain that when a computer is first started, firmware, which is built in code to
initialize the hardware and load an operating system, starts first.
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2. Mention that the oldest style of firmware, BIOS, recognizes the MBR partition style. A
newer and alternate type of firmware, UEFI, recognizes the GPT partition style.
Types of Disk Partitions
1. Explain that with basic disks, desktop computers commonly have a single hard disk that
stores the operating system, applications, and user data.
2. Define Dynamic disk as a Microsoft partitioning scheme. Only the Windows 7
Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate Editions support dynamic disks.
File Systems
1. Describe the following file systems supported by Windows 7:
a. FAT16
b. FAT32
c. exFAT
d. NTFS
e. CDFS
f. UDF
Application Support
1. Explain that the core of Windows 7 has been redesigned by Microsoft architects to
provide application features that could not be achieved in earlier versions of Windows.
Compatibility Settings
1. Explain that compatibility settings are available as a property of an application after it is
installed. 7 can emulate the following environments:
a. Windows 95
b. Windows 98/ME
c. Windows NT 4 SP5
d. Windows 2000
e. Windows XP SP2
f. Windows XP SP3
g. Windows Server 2003 SP1
h. Windows Server 2008 SP1
i. Windows Vista
j. Windows Vista SP1
k. Windows Vista SP2
Program Compatibility Wizard
1. Explain that the Program Compatibility Wizard has the ability to guide the user through
different compatibility settings, and if that doesn’t work, report the results to Microsoft.
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The wizard can be started by right-clicking a program icon and selecting Troubleshoot
compatibility from the pop-up menu.
Application Compatibility Toolkit
1. Define the Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT) as a free tool provided by
Microsoft to help IT administrators discover which of their existing applications are
compatible with Windows 7.
Windows XP Mode with Windows Virtual PC
1. Define Virtual PC as a free product from Microsoft that allows the creation of a virtual
computer system that runs as an application hosted on Windows 7.
2. Explain that Virtual PC allows a user to run an older version of Windows inside the
virtual computer. A virtual computer shares the computer’s hardware with Windows 7.
3. Mention that Windows XP Mode allows the applications installed in the Windows
Virtual machine to show up on the Windows 7 Start Menu.
Kernel and User Mode Enhancements
1. Explain that to provide better application isolation, Microsoft architects have redesigned
the security levels for core components of the operating system.
2. Explain that software components with kernel mode access have total access to all of
the computer’s data and its hardware. If a software component crashes, there is little the
operating system can do to stop it or recover.
3. Mention that a software component with user mode access has access to its own private
space and nothing else. Windows 7 architects have redesigned the kernel to support
more types of software running at a user level instead of a kernel level.
4. Mention that ring level is used to describe security levels at the CPU hardware level.
Ring levels go from Ring 0 (least restricted) to 3 (most restricted).
Virtual PC Hypervisor
1. Mention that operating systems and applications running in a virtual machine expect
access to Ring 0.
2. Define Ring -1 as a virtual security level with more permissions than Ring 0. At Ring
-1, a hypervisor program runs with a higher security level than any operating system.
The computer can be running one or more operating systems that think they have the
highest security level.
MCTS Guide to Microsoft Windows 7
Teaching
Tip
1-15
Read more about hypervisor technology at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypervisor.
Connectivity Applications
1. This section describes the following connectivity applications:
a. Remote Desktop
b. Remote Assistance
c. Network Projection
d. Windows Collaboration
Remote Desktop
1. Explain that Remote Desktop is included with Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, and
Ultimate Editions. It allows a user to remotely connect to their computer using the
remote desktop client over TCP/IP.
Remote Assistance
1. Define Remote Assistance as a stand-alone application included with all versions of
Windows 7 that allows a user can ask for help from a trusted professional over the
network.
2. Explain that Easy Connect allows a computer to be discovered over the Internet using a
generated password and the IPv6 network protocol.
Network Projection
1. Explain that Network Projection is included with Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate,
and Enterprise Editions. It allows user to connect to network-attached projectors over
wired and wireless networks.
HomeGroups
1. Explain that HomeGroups provide a mechanism to easily share printers, pictures, music,
videos, and documents with other Windows 7 computers using a shared wired or
wireless network at home.
2. Mention that each computer that joins the HomeGroup system must present a valid
HomeGroup password.
Networking Models
1. This section describes the following networking models supported by Windows 7:
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a. Workgroup Model
b. Domain Model
c. Windows Peer-to-Peer Networking
Workgroup Model
1. Define a workgroup as a loosely knit collection of peer computers on a network, where
no computer has control or a superior role to any other computer. Each computer is
identified by its name and address on the network. The default workgroup name is
typically WORKGROUP.
2. Mention that the workgroup design is traditionally known as a peer-to-peer networking
model.
3. Explain that managing a workgroup can be difficult. Computers in a workgroup are
usually part of a single local area network operating with direct access between each
computer. Workgroups should be limited to 10 to 20 computers.
Domain Model
1. Define a domain model as a client/server strategy that allows central administrative
management of its members.
2. Define a domain as a collection of computers and users that are identified by a common
security database. The database is stored on one or more dedicated servers called
domain controllers (DC). Each member of the domain can take on a client or server
role.
3. Mention that a domain model is typically employed in business environments.
4. Describe the main characteristics of the following two types of domains:
a. Windows NT Domains
b. Active Directory Domains
Windows Peer-to-Peer Networking
1. Explain that Windows Peer-to-Peer Networking is similar in concept to the traditional
workgroup model, but technically different.
2. Explain that Windows Peer-to-Peer Networking makes peer-to-peer infrastructure
scalable from the LAN to the Internet, as long as they communicate using IPv6.
3. Mention that Teredo allows IPv6 traffic to be embedded in legacy IPv4 traffic.
4. Explain that Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRP) is used by Windows Peer-to-Peer
Networking clients to discover each other.
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Quick Quiz 2
1. The term ____ is used to describe security levels at the CPU hardware level.
Answer: ring level
2. A(n) ____ is a collection of computers and users that are identified by a common
security database.
Answer: domain
3. Active Directory systems use a different naming strategy based on TCP/IP-based ____
technology.
Answer: Domain Name System (DNS)
Domain Name System
DNS
4. ____ (PNRP) is used by Windows Peer-to-Peer Networking clients to discover each
other.
Answer: Peer Name Resolution Protocol
Class Discussion Topics
1. Briefly describe the features included with each version of Windows 7.
2. In what situations is it better to use either Windows NT domains or Active Directory
domains?
Additional Projects
1. Use the Internet to find the security advantages of using Windows 7. Report your
findings.
2. Using the list of features included with each version of Windows 7 provided in this
chapter, create a table that can be used as a map to upgrade from different Windowsbased operating systems to Windows 7. Use the following format:
Original Windows-based OS
Windows 2000 Server
Windows XP SP2
Windows Media Center
Windows Vista SP1
…
Windows 7 Version
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Additional Resources
1. Graphics and Windows 7:
http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/device/display/graphicsguidewin7.mspx
2. Windows Display Driver Model:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Display_Driver_Model
3. .NET Framework Conceptual Overview:
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/zw4w595w.aspx
4. Windows Driver Foundation:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Driver_Foundation
5. Windows Imaging Format:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Imaging_Format
6. Windows Logo program:
http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/winlogo/default.mspx
Key Terms
 Active Directory (AD)—A domain security database of user and computer information
that is stored on domain controllers and referenced by domain member computers. This
database is stored on multi-master replicating domain controllers running Windows
2000 or Windows 2003 for an operating system. The older Windows NT domain
controllers cannot hold Active Directory security databases.
 Aero Glass—A visual effect that is part of the new Aero look-and-feel of Windows 7.
Many graphical elements have a semitransparent appearance to allow users to see other
windows under the active one. This is done to allow the user a better feel for what other
applications are doing in the background without being too distracting.
 Application Compatibility Toolkit—A collection of tools, advice, and methodologies
that guides the IT administrator in determining which legacy applications are
compatible with Windows 7. It does not make those applications compatible; it merely
helps the IT administrator use a structured method of testing and tracking compatibility
information.
 Application Programming Interface (API)—A set of rules and conditions a
programmer follows when writing an application to allow the program to interact with
part of the operating system. The program is guaranteed to work if they follow the API
rules published by the authors of a feature in the operating system.
 Backup DC (BDC)—A specialized Windows NT server that is responsible for holding
a read-only copy of the domain security database.
 BitLocker Drive Encryption—An encryption method used to protect an entire hard
disk. Without proper credentials, a hard disk will remain encrypted, even if the disk is
removed from the computer.
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 blue screen of death (BSOD)—A common term used to describe an error condition in
the operating system that has resulted in a full halt of the operating system due to a
critical error. The error screen is usually white text on a blue background, hence the
name.
 Central Processing Unit (CPU)—A device responsible for the actual execution of
instructions stored in applications and operating system code. Windows 7 supports 32and 64-bit CPUs.
 CD-ROM File System (CDFS)—A file system introduced with Windows 95 and
Windows NT to organize files and folders on a CD-ROM disk. The CDFS file system is
considered adequate for older CD-ROM disks but not for rewritable CD-ROMs or
newer DVD media formats. For those newer media technologies, UDF is the preferred
file system.
 cooperative multitasking—A method for applications to share the CPU. All
applications rotate access to and do not monopolize the CPU. If an application does not
release control of the CPU, the computer may appear stalled or other applications
appear very sluggish.
 device driver—Software written by the developer of a hardware component that tells
the operating system how to talk to and control the hardware.
 domain controller—A server responsible for holding a domain security database that
contains a list of user and computer account security data.
 Domain Name System (DNS)—A standard service in the TCP/IP protocol used to
define how computer names are translated into IP addresses.
 Dynamic Link Library files (DLLs)—A file that holds application code modules.
These modules are shared among applications, so the file is also called a library. DLL
files can be replaced to update an application without having to replace the entire
application.
 EDID (Extended Display Identification Data)—A standard that defines how the
monitor hardware can pass details about its abilities to the graphics card and ultimately
the operating system. Details such as preferred refresh rate and screen resolution can be
set by the monitor manufacturer and EDID will allow this information to be passed to
the operating system. The operating system can use that information to configure the
optimum view on the monitor without having to ask the user for those settings. This
provides a simpler user-friendly experience when setting up new monitor hardware.
 Encrypted File System (EFS)—A component of the NTFS file system that is
responsible for encrypting individual files. Those files are not readable without the
correct digital identification.
 eXtensible Markup Language (XML)—A standard for formatting data that is
exchanged between applications. By using a standard, application developers do not
have to write custom data translators for every product with which their applications
share data.
 File Allocation Table (FAT)—An older method of organizing files and folders in a
hard disk partition. Files are stored in blocks of data that point to each other in a chainlike structure. The blocks that are used in the partition and the link from one to another
are stored in a master table called the FAT.
 Graphical Processing Unit (GPU)—A hardware component, similar to the CPU, that
is added to video cards to calculate how to draw complex shapes on the screen. Because
the GPU can perform the complex operations on its own, the CPU is free to work on
other tasks.
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 Hardware Compatibility List (HCL)—A legacy method of determining if hardware is
compatible with the operating system. This has been replaced by the Windows Catalog
and the Windows Marketplace Web site.
 Hyper-Threading—A technique used in certain Intel processors to improve their
overall performance by working on more than one thread at a time. When one thread is
waiting for an operation to complete, a second thread can use some of the processor’s
hardware instead of the processor just idling. This extra work is done inside the
processor’s hardware and is specific to the design of the processor itself. Programmers
writing application threads and the operating system that schedules those threads to run
must be aware of the benefits and limits of the Hyper-Threaded processor to take best
advantage of any performance gain that might be possible.
 kernel mode—An access mode for applications while they are running on the CPU that
allows full access to all hardware devices and memory in the computer.
 multi-master replication—When a domain has multiple domain controllers, all
domain controllers are capable of making changes to the security domain database they
share. The changes are replicated from one domain controller to another.
 multiprocessor—A term used to refer to a computer with more than one CPU.
 multitasking—A term used to describe the appearance of more than one application
sharing the CPU of the computer. To the user, the applications all seem to be running at
the same time.
 Network Location Awareness Service (NLA)—A service that allows applications to
track the state of the network connections available to the computer. An application can
track how much data can be sent over a connection, if it is available, or if new
connections appear. Based on this information, the application can modify its attempts
to communicate over the network.
 NT File System (NTFS)—A standard for organizing files and folders on a hard disk
partition. This standard is more complex than FAT but adds more management features.
This is the preferred standard for storing files on a hard disk.
 Plug and Play technology—A general term used to describe hardware that can be
plugged in to the computer system and removed at any time. The computer will
recognize the hardware dynamically, load a device driver for it, and make it available to
the user in a short period of time.
 preemptive multitasking—A method for applications to share a CPU and appear that
they are all running at the same time. This method adds time limits and priority levels to
determine how long an application can use the processor and which application gets to
go next. An application can also be preempted by another application if it has a higher
priority level.
 Primary DC (PDC)—A specialized Windows NT server that is responsible for holding
a writeable copy of the domain security database.
 process—A term used to describe the files, memory, and application code that combine
together to form a single running application. Each application running on a
multitasking system is referenced by a single process.
 processor affinity—A standard in which a process that starts in a computer with more
than one CPU is usually assigned to that CPU again the next time it runs.
 quantum—The amount of time allocated to a program running in a preemptive
multitasking environment. Once a program’s quantum has expired, it must wait for the
next available quantum.
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 Really Simple Syndication (RSS)—A Web-based service used on the Internet to
distribute updates about new content, articles, and news on Web sites and provide links
to those sites. A user can subscribe to a particular feed or type of update to stay up to
date and informed on the latest content available in an area or site that interests them.
 ring level—A security level in the CPU that is used to determine a program’s degree of
access to memory and hardware. The ring levels are used to set user and kernel mode
access in the operating system.
 Software Assurance (SA)—An option when purchasing Microsoft software that allows
you to automatically receive the latest version of a product. For example, if you
purchased Windows XP with Software Assurance, you would automatically be able to
upgrade to Windows 7.
 Startup Repair Tool—A tool provided in Windows 7 to help users determine why
their computer failed and what they should do to repair it.
 thread—A piece of code that performs a specific single task. An application is written
as one or more threads, each of which performs a specific task within the application.
The thread is typically seen as a unit of work for the CPU to perform.
 Trusted Platform Module (TPM)—A third-party standard to define a method of
trusting the computer environment before an operating system is started. This helps to
prevent the theft of a hard disk and placement of the disk in a foreign system to steal
data.
 Universal Disk Format (UDF)—A third-party standard that defines how data is stored
on removable media such as DVD disks.
 user mode—An access mode for applications while they are running on the CPU that
allows restricted access to all hardware devices and memory in the computer. This
mode makes it difficult for the running application to corrupt and crash the operating
system. System-level applications may need more access than is allowed and must use
kernel mode instead.
 Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM)—A standard API for writing device
drivers that are compatible with the new graphical subsystem that is now part of
Windows 7.
 Windows Driver Foundation (WDF)—A standard for writing device drivers that
interact with Windows 7. This standard replaces WDM and adds new features such as
support for user mode device drivers.
 Windows Driver Model (WDM)—An older standard for writing device drivers that
interact with Windows. Device drivers that use this standard are still supported, but
should be replaced with drivers that use the new WDF architecture.
 Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL)—A service provided by Microsoft to
hardware developers and vendors to test their hardware with different versions of
Windows. This testing only validates that a device works with Windows; it does not
compare devices.
 Windows Imaging Format (WIM)—A format to store images of applications and
operating systems in image files. These images represent customized installations that
can be distributed to other computers and installed using a scripted solution.