As far as Microsoft is concerned, limiting the version number for Windows 7 to 6.1, barely up from Windows Vista v6.0, is a measure designed to help software and hardware developers enjoy compatibility by default between their products and the next iteration of the Windows client. However, this is not the only move from the Redmond company designed to support a high level of compatibility for Vista specific solutions with Windows 7. The software company is also offering resources set up to enable developers to better tailor their products to Windows 7, including the Windows 7 Application Quality Cookbook and the Windows 7 Logo Program.

“Application certification on Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 has never been easier. And testing your application is more cost effective than ever. You can earn a Windows 7 logo with self tests. And the initial testing for Windows Server 2008 R2 are done in house as well. The cookbook and developer guide are the keys,” Bruce Kyle, Microsoft ISV architect evangelist, revealed.

With the guidelines available via the Windows Application Quality Cookbook, Microsoft is promising developers that they will be able to built programs that will not only integrate seamlessly with Windows 7 from a compatibility point of view, but that will also offer end-users a better experience through high reliability and performance. The document is valid for both the Windows 7 client and Windows 7 Server 2008 R2.

At the same time, the Windows 7 Logo Program is the evolution of Microsoft's efforts related to previous releases of Windows. The logo program will guarantee that devices, systems, and applications meet Windows 7's compatibility, reliability and performance standards.

“Windows 7 Logo Requirements provides a short list of how your application must behave for Windows 7. And those who write commercial software and many hobbiest have already faced these issues,” Kyle added. “So between self testing, understanding the requirements, good install techniques, and application testing on Windows 7, your application can be ready for the next version of Windows. Then with just a couple more steps, can receive the Windows 7 logo.”

Windows 7 Beta is available for download here.