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A stability, performance and security operating system update package

A stability, performance and security operating system update package

Vote: (196 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Microsoft

Version: 976932

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(196 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Microsoft

976932

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Essential update
  • More secure and table

Cons

  • Long installation

SP1 64-bit is an essential update for Windows 7 that adds many features and refinements.

Windows 7 SP1 64-bit is an essential update that adds numerous features and bug fixes as well as refinements to what was already in place. SP stands for Service Pack, which is a collection of features, enhancements, fixes and so forth. SP1 for Windows 7 not only includes new content but every hotfix that was released for the OS leading up to it. The 64-bit designation means that this download is to be used on 64-bit systems where a 64-bit installation of Windows 7 is in place.

For most users, Service Pack 1 will be completely hands-off. Simply run the executable and let it work its magic. It doesn’t require much if any user interaction, but it may need to reboot your PC once or twice in the process. When the process is complete, your computer will be up to date, and all your data and installed programs will be in place and ready to use just as you left them before the process began.

A big focus with SP1 by Microsoft is security and stability. Many vulnerabilities were closed, and the OS is just more secure overall. The OS performs better, requires less resources and rarely crashes. In fact, at the time of the release, this made 7 the most stable Windows yet—by far.

As mentioned, SP1 also introduced new features. There are too many to list here, but two of the most notable are RemoteFX and Dynamic Memory. RemoteFX allows virtual graphics processing on the service side—or cloud—which means that you can in theory enjoy state-of-the-art media, including 3D games, in a virtual environment. Dynamic Memory is another virtualization resource that lets you expand the scope and count of virtual machines in a more efficient and secure manner.

The worst aspect of Service Pack 1 is the installation. Not only is the download size of the standalone edition close to 1 GB, but the install can take a very long time. This is particularly true on older machines where an install time of well over an hour is not out of the question. This has a lot to do with the SP1 customizing itself for a particular hardware configuration. Overall, however, it’s a relatively small price to pay since it’s a hassle you only have to go through once—or at least until you install Windows again.

Pros

  • Essential update
  • More secure and table

Cons

  • Long installation