Best Windows 7 Rig
Best Windows 7 Rig
Probable outcome varies; focus should be on whether single-core efficiency (skylake) matters more than additional cores (x99).
Intel has stopped backing Windows 7 support, though Microsoft claims there are still a few years remaining for it.
5820K or 5930K? Both are solid options, but the first really stands out; the second mainly adds a few PCI lanes, which could help with 3 or 4 way SLI—though those setups aren’t common anymore! Setting up Windows 7 on newer boards is already notable, as some chips won’t recognize it and updates will stop until you switch to Windows 10. So yes, Windows 7 remains functional through 2020, though only on certain systems.
The Zeffy Patch will handle everything. I designed an X99 setup since there was still doubt about Skylake receiving updates. This machine is meant for use for several years ahead—possibly five or more. It's important to remember that Win7 support ends in January 2020. There won't be any registry adjustments to extend patch availability like XP did, and it's unclear if server versions will continue receiving updates. I doubt my system will get patched after 2020, so I won’t upgrade to Windows 10 either. My current 8.1 retail box should last until at least 2023. Still, I’m leaning toward Linux before 2020.
I considered options that didn’t rely on community-made or third-party fixes. Since I’ve never really worked with Linux outside servers, I’m focusing on alternatives that fit my needs without those dependencies. I’m also thinking about switching to Linux because Windows 10 doesn’t align with what I’m seeking.