Windows for a Netbook

MikeHiow

MikeHiow

MikeHiow

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26 Oct 2004
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The OH is getting fed up with Linux on her netbook - whilst she doesn't have an issue using it, she just claims there are some little niggles she just doesn't like.

I was thinking of sticking Windows 7 on, but is there a lightweight version similar to TinyXP? I would just disable all the unused services etc. but I was planning on getting a small SSD (32GB) to speed things up a bit, so a version with a smaller footprint would be beneficial.
 
I think vlite (designed for Vista, works on 7) can be used to "slim" down the installation a bit to your choosing...

But regardless, it's going to be hard. The winsxs folder in Windows 7 took up a ton of space on my mom's netbook. And since it's going to be a netbook, it'll probably need the hibernate file too. And you won't be able to move the pagefile to another hard drive... hmm 32GB just seems too small for me to use Windows 7.

Any particular reason you won't use Windows XP? As much as I love Windows 7, it seems a bit tight on a 32GB hard drive.
 
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Windows XP is just a chore these days, especially when it comes to a netbook where loads of different wifi networks will be used regularly - something XP seems to struggle with.
 
I suppose you're right. The XP wireless manager is absolute crap -- I did a quick search and Google and couldn't find any feasible replacement.

I did however, find this guide here. If you're willing to put the time into it... looks like a good guide.

If you plan on using vlite, there's a quick guide here too.
 
I've been using a 'full fat' install of 7 Pro on a netbook and tbh it's been fine, although I had already upgraded the ram to 2gig.
 
Windows 7 full installworks fine but I would recommend upping the ram to 2GB and getting at least a 64HD though obviously 32 will take the OS
 
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No probs running 32 bit win7 on my netbook with a 16gb drive tbh. 64 bit takes up quite a lot more space though. I got a 16gb SD card for a few quid that is used for storage, and my SSD is about 2/3 full including open office and the usual stuff
 
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