Movie Maker, Messenger and Mail are just some of the functions that did not make it into the Windows  7 operating system, [which was recently released].
But that doesn't mean computer users have to learn to live without them. Windows Live, a free package of those programs and more can either be downloaded or accessed via a browser. As an added bonus, Microsoft has managed to fine-tune some of those functions.
"We tried to keep the operating system slim, that's why we put these over into Windows Live," explains Oliver Blanchard, responsible for programming services at Microsoft's operations in Germany.
Other programs that did not make the cut for Windows 7 include photo processing systems, the blog program Live Writer, the toolbar and family safety software that lets parents block their child's access to certain content.
Downloading the programs is accomplished via a link in Windows 7. It just takes a few clicks to finish the job, says Blanchard. Setting it up this way saves customers from having to search on Google and perhaps ending up at sites that demand money for the free functions.
"It's best to download from the source -- from Bill," advises Georg Tryba of the Consumer Centre of the German state of North-Rhine Westphalia, referring to Microsoft founder Bill Gates.
"Downloading the Live program is no problem for the average Windows user," says Andreas Sauerland of Computer Bild, a German computer magazine. "That runs via a web installer and is finished in a little less than half an hour."
In general, Sauerland says he's OK with hiving off the software into Live. "The extra icons in Windows haven't bothered me yet, but that's a question of taste." It means the computer user now has the option to choose which functions he wants for the operating system and which he can live without.
It's possible to pass on Windows Live entirely. In Sauerland's opinion, that wouldn't mean missing out on much. "The programs aren't without competition. There are good photo programs and messenger functions for free elsewhere."
But he adds there is not much comparison when it comes to quality, practicality and security . "I'm a fan of Windows Live, because I think it's comfortable." For example, he finds Live Writer to be a reliable option for blogging. (continued...)
© 2009 Deutsche Presse-Agentur (dpa) under contract with MarketWatch. All rights reserved.
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