Reloaded7 features

Browse A to Z

64-bit support

Accessibility

Action Center

Aero

Audio and video

Backup and Restore

BitLocker

Calculator

Desktop

Device management

DirectX 11

Domain Join

Gadgets

Games Explorer

Getting Started

HomeGroup

Internet Explorer 8

Internet TV

Jump Lists

Language packs

Libraries

Location Aware Printing

Multiplayer games

Paint

Parental Controls

Peek

Performance improvements

Play To

Power management

ReadyBoost

Remote Desktop Connection

Remote Media Streaming

Shake

Snap

Snipping Tool

Startup Repair

Sticky Notes

System Restore

Tablet PC

User Account Control

View Available Networks

Windows Anytime Upgrade

Windows Connect Now

Windows Defender

Windows Easy Transfer

Windows Experience Index

Windows Fax and Scan

Windows Firewall

Windows Live Essentials

Windows Media Center

Windows Media Player 12

Windows Search

Windows Taskbar

Windows Touch

Windows Troubleshooting

Windows Update

Windows XP Mode

WordPad

XPS

Desktop

See the new Windows 7 desktop in action.

With Windows 7, we’ve made it easier to get more done on the desktop.

New ways to juggle windows

Overwhelmed by open windows? Windows 7 comes with three simple yet powerful new features called Shake, Peek, and Snap to help you instantly clear through desktop clutter.

Picture of Peek Peek-a-boo: Peek turns open windows translucent so you can see what's on your desktop.

Spectacular new wallpapers

We spend a lot of time staring at our PCs. Aesthetics shouldn't just be an afterthought. That's why Windows 7 includes a slew of new desktop backgrounds—wallpapers—that range from sublime to silly. Or try the new desktop slide show, which displays a rotating series of pictures (ours or yours). Your desktop will never be dull again.

Picture of Aero themes Windows 7 makes it easy to express your personality with creative new themes and other custom touches.

Retooled taskbar

Since Windows 95, the taskbar has served as the go-to spot for launching programs and switching windows. Times and PC habits have changed. So in Windows 7, the taskbar has been completely redesigned to help you work smarter, cut clutter, and get more done.

Picture of the Taskbar Improvements to the new Windows 7 taskbar include thumbnail previews of webpages, documents—even running video.

Improved gadgets

Gadgets, the popular mini-programs introduced in Windows Vista, are now more flexible and fun. Based on your feedback, we've done away with the Sidebar, so you can stick your gadgets anywhere on the desktop.

Picture of gadgets Favorite gadgets can go anywhere on your Windows 7 desktop.

 Note: Not all features mentioned above are available in all editions of Windows 7. See the individual feature pages for details.