Windows Live™ Essentials and Services: Using Free Microsoft Applications for Windows® 7

Introduction

Welcome to Windows Live Essentials Applications and Services. These are free applications and services available from Microsoft that anybody can download on their computer and use without any additional costs. The services are used on the Internet, so one requirement for using these is an Internet connection for your PC.

Although these services are offered for free, it doesn't mean they are trivial. In fact, if you are using a Home version of Windows Vista, then some of these applications were likely included with your system. This includes Windows Mail, Photo Gallery, and more. These were not included on Windows XP or Windows 7; however, as indicated, you can now download them online.

NOTE The requirements for using the applications or services are as follows:

• Operating system: Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (32-bit edition only), Windows Vista (32-bit or 64-bit editions), Windows 7 (32-bit or 64-bit editions), or Windows Server 2008. (Windows Live Movie Maker is not supported on Windows XP.)
• Processor: 1 GHz or higher for Windows Vista; 800 MHz or higher for Windows XP.
• Memory: 128 MB of RAM (256 MB or more recommended) for Windows XP; 512 MB for Windows Vista.
• Resolution: Minimum 1024 × 768.
• Internet connection: Internet functionality requires dial-up or broadband Internet access (provided separately). Local or long-distance charges may apply.
• Browser: Windows Live Toolbar requires Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 or later.
• Graphics or video card: Windows Live Movie ...