Quote:
Originally Posted by Perry Reed
I fail to see how an, in a discussion about Windows backwards-compatibility, that Linux could possibly be considered a rational solution. Linux has essentially no Windows compatibilty (Wine and similar tools considered).
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This is silly. You stated that they should drop all backwards compatibility and run prior versions in virtual machines (ala "XP Mode"). This is very much possible using Linux (and even more elegantly and seamlessly possible using OS/X + Parallels or VMWare Fusion) which carries a far lighter resource load (because it has far fewer features). Throw Mono and Moonlight on top and you can ALMOST claim to provide a seamless transition path for LOB app developers.
FWIW, I'm a major Linux basher by trade. I just had to point out that what you were suggesting would put Windows nearly on par with them in terms of a competitive landscape. And don't forget about drivers when you ask for these things. Losing hardware support is a terrible thing, as we saw on a relatively minor scale with Vista, and might actually make these Linux more compelling.
As for removing the backwards compatibility "hooks," yes, possible. Again, though, I'm not sure it is wise. I'm also not sure REALLY what it would accomplish. It is already essentially microkernel-based and highly (almost woefully) modular. Most of the backwards compatibility hooks come in the form of maintaining old DLL/COM wrappers for new functions, which really aren't that big of a deal relative to the value that they provide. They, in reality, add almost zero overhead (except a few megs of disk space).
I agree 100% with the integration of more touch (though I think Windows 7 is making significant strides there). I've already agreed with (and disagreed with) the registry portion of your argument. What else are you looking for? Modern driver model? Done. New file system? In the works. New GUI? Done'ish. More secure? Well, it is as secure as anything out there now. Faster? A product of refinement (always a work-in-progress, but far better than we'd see with a ground-up effort) and size vs. feature tradeoffs (your call--Windows 7 now allows much more granular control over the installed and active subsystems).
Does Windows 7 carry some baggage? Sure, but it isn't huge. I think you nailed it by calling the registry the #1 candidate for a severe rethink. Are there any other specifics that you are aiming to fix with your cleaver?