Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate are two editions of the six original Windows 7 versions realized by the Microsoft Windows Operating System. Unlike other versions, the benefits of these two are most feasible for IT techs and not for every home user.
However, there are several differences between the two. Still, one of the main differences is that the Professional uses file-based encryption whereas the Ultimate edition uses both file-based encryption and BitLocker encryption level.
Key Takeaways
- Windows 7 Professional is a version of the Windows 7 operating system that includes features for business users, such as domain join, remote desktop, and enhanced security options.
- Windows 7 Ultimate is the most feature-rich version of the Windows 7 operating system, including all features of Windows 7 Professional, plus additional features like BitLocker encryption and multiple language support.
- Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate are Windows 7 operating system versions, but Ultimate offers a more comprehensive feature set for advanced users and specific needs.
Windows 7 Professional vs Ultimate
Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate are two different editions of the Windows 7 operating system; Ultimate includes all the features of Professional, along with additional language and data protection capabilities.
The difference between the Professional and Ultimate editions is that Ultimate is designed to be more advanced with 35 MUI language packs and Applocker benefits than Professional.
Both Professional and Ultimate are equipped with additional controls such as access to joining windows domains and Group Policy, serving host from a remote desktop, and advanced backup options, which make them stand out from the Windows Starter, Home Premium, and Home Basic.
Comparison Table
| Parameter of Comparison | Windows 7 Professional Edition | Windows 7 Ultimate Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft support extended upto | January 2020 | January 2015 |
| Encryption type | File-based encryption | Bitlocker encryption level and File Based Encryption |
| Applocker | Not Present | Can block software from running; Applocker technology included |
| Branch cache | Not Present | Optimization technology available |
| Virtual Desktop Infrastructure | Not present | Enhanced VDI facilities made available |
| VHD | Cannot boot files from VHD | Can boot files from VHD |
What is Windows 7 Professional?
Windows Professional is one of the six windows 7 editions launched by the Microsoft Windows Operating System in 2009. Professional, as the name suggests, is especially beneficial for the IT maestros who can avail of the additional assistance once upgraded.
Windows 7 Professional is unavailable in retail stores, but one can upgrade from the basic through the Windows Upgrade Anytime portal. Professional can support the memory of 192 GB and can support 2 CPUs.
Professional is also equipped with the Presentation Mode feature to enable uninterrupted usage and Location-aware Printing for accessing printers located within the appropriate vicinity.
It also allows the user to join windows domains and have more control over the system through advanced features of Group Policy which is particularly beneficial for network administrators. Another alluring aspect of Windows Professional is allowing the user to run Windows XP SP3 within Windows 7.
However, the support for Professional ended in January 2020, but it continues to provide advanced services such as Advanced Backup and Restore options, making retrieving lost files easier. Windows defender in Professional edition helps provide more security from viruses and malicious software.
What is Windows 7 Ultimate?
Windows 7 Ultimate was also launched along with 5 other editions of Windows 7 in 2009 by the Microsoft Windows Operating System. Unlike Windows Home Premium and Starter, the Ultimate edition is most popular among tech guys for its numerous additional benefits.
The Ultimate edition covers all that is included in Windows Professional and much more. For starters, Ultimate has both File-Based Encryption and Bitlocker Encryption, which adds more security.
The Ultimate edition to supports a maximum of 192 GB memory and a functioning capacity of 2 CPUs. It is enabled with Presentation mode, Location-Aware Printing, and Advanced Backup and Restores options just like professional.
However, this versatile edition of Windows 7 Ultimate also includes the benefits of easy switching between 35 MUI language packs and advanced features to block malicious software run through Applocker property.
The Ultimate edition also has Branch cache optimization technology for easier file access over the wide-area network. Also, it allows direct access to Virtual Hard Disk or the disk image without the interference of the host.
Additionally, it helps keep the user connected while travelling through phones enabled by the Direct Access feature and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure especially designed for network administrators.
Main Differences Between Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate
- The Ultimate Edition can boot files directly from VHD without host interference, which is impossible in Professional.
- Windows 7 Professional only have File-Based Encryption, while Ultimate has both File Based and Bitlocker Encryption enabled.
- The Ultimate edition has Applocker features, which are missing in Professional.
- The Direct Access feature is only present in Windows 7 Ultimate and is not included in the Professional edition.
- The Ultimate Edition also includes a Wide Area Network Optimization facility with Branch Cache, which is not present in Windows 7 Professional.
- The Ultimate edition allows access to 35 MUI language packs that are also missing in the Professional edition.
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