With the new year only a few days old and the 2009 recession almost behind us, many companies are now looking to upgrade their network and computer systems. One of the big upgrades for many this year is the Windows XP/Vista to Windows 7, a task that has so far met with mixed reviews but has faired MUCH better than the Vista debacle of '07. While I'm sure we haven't met all the bugs that Microsoft's latest offering is sure to produce.

Cisco systems has already made some headway in the software compatibility department. According to Microsoft's Compatibility Center, 4 Cisco desktop apps are already certified to work with Windows 7; Cisco VPN client version 5, Cisco LEAP Module, Cisco EAP-FAST Module, and the Cisco PEAP Module. The modules themselves are used with a VPN and can securely transmit authentication credentials. Cisco's VPN support for Windows 7 covers both the IPSEC and SSLVPN clients, although the VPN client 5.0.6 only does the 32-bit version at this time, SSLVPN can handle the 32 and 64-bit operating system.

Consumers using Cisco's Unified Communications product line should be warned that support for Windows 7 won't be available until the version 8.0 is released sometime in the first quarter of 2010, minus about a dozen UC products that will have to wait until version 8.5. Out of 50 UC products published, only 3 of these have been promised to support the 64-bit OS through a 32-bit emulator. Make sure to check with your company's IT department before doing a Windows 7 upgrade to avoid setbacks!