Microsoft Releases Windows 7 Service Pack 1

Microsoft has finally set the official date for the release of its much-anticipated Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1), due February 22nd, 2011. A service pack is a cumulative collection of bug fixes, patches, updates, and includes major changes to the operating system.

In a recent announcement, Microsoft said Windows 7 Service Pack 1 was at the Release To Manufacturing (RTM) stage in its development, meaning the code is currently being shipped to PC and server makers. (Source: betanews.com)

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Download

For those who can't wait, Microsoft says subscribers to its TechNet blog or the Microsoft Software Developer Network (MSDN) will have access to the Windows 7 Service Pack 1 download as earlier as Wednesday, February 16.

Both dates prove industry insiders Computerworld correct in their prediction that Windows 7 Service Pack 1 would be available prior to the end of February. The site made that call back in October, when Microsoft released a release candidate (RC) build for final testing purposes.

Windows 7 SP1 Big News for Business

The release of Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is typically more significant for business than home users. Historically, most companies wait until the first Service Pack release of a Microsoft operating system before migrating from a previous version (example: from Windows XP to Windows 7), because most Service Pack include major fixes, compatibility issues, and improve the operating system's stability.

In addressing this trend, Microsoft recently touted the benefits of Windows 7 SP1 to businesses, noting that two prominent features: RemoteFX and Dynamic Memory, which allow PC makers to build and retail affordable clients running Windows 7 within a virtual machine.

"These technologies will drive down the endpoint cost and reduce endpoint power consumption," noted Windows Server group manager, Michael Kleef. (Source: computerworld.com)

Both RemoteFX and Dynamic Memory are intended to improve Windows 7's performance and customization options.