Windows 7 has numerous features that make it a great improvement over prior systems. However, like most things, if you are unaware of all these features you could be missing out.

By mastering a few simple tricks, you can get the most out of Windows 7.

• If you wish to move images to outside disks, you can now achieve this easily with Windows 7. The operating system lets you burn ISO images onto CDs or DVDs. To do this, you only have to double-click on the ISO image, tell Windows 7 the drive that holds your blank disc, and then click the “burn” option. Windows 7 will do the rest.

• Discovering issues and repairing them is also simple with Windows 7. To do this select the “Control Panel” and select the “troubleshooting” option. This will give you access to a number of wizards that look for and take care of common OS issues. For example cleaning up adware and eliminating clutter.

• Do younger members of your household install cumbersome software that slows down your computer? This is easily prevented using the Windows 7 AppLocker feature. This feature only allows your computer to run and install programs that have your pre-approval. You can tell AppLocker to only run programs from trustworthy companies, so if someone is attempting to run a program from an unknown publisher AppLocker will block it.

• Another great feature is its power efficiency service. This allows you to monitor how much power your laptop is using. This is often helpful if you are working remotely and have no access to a power source.