Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system (OS) has received great reviews since its October 22, 2009 launch, but many home users and businesses continue to employ older versions of Windows, particularly XP.

According to a new report, however, the next twelve months could prove critical for Microsoft, with predictions that an enormous number of consumers will make the shift to Windows 7.

Windows 7 Report Based on September 2010 Poll

The report stems from a late September 2010 poll of 115 different IT clients by independent analyst firm Directions on Microsoft.

It finds that currently only about 11 per cent of Microsoft customers have made the upgrade from Windows XP or Vista to Windows 7. However, approximately 50 per cent of all polled IT 'decision makers' say they expect to see an upgrade to the new OS in the upcoming 12 months. (Source: networkworld.com)

An additional 27 per cent say they expect their companies to make the shift to Windows 7 sometime in the next two years.

Several Factors Pushing Users to Win7

So, what's behind this big push to Windows 7? Certainly, Microsoft's decision to make its next major Internet browser, Internet Explorer 9 (IE9) a Windows 7 and Vista exclusive will help push home and business users alike towards the new OS.

However, also important is the age and vulnerability of Windows XP, which is now about a decade old. In addition, many businesses are starting to feel more confident in this economic climate, and are less intimidated by the prospect of shelling out considerable resources for a widespread OS upgrade.

Windows 7 Family Pack Currently On Sale

Also helpful: the nearness of Windows 7 Service Pack 1, a collection of improvements to the operating system that should be available sometime in the spring. For home users, special deals will help increase the adoption rate: right now, CNET reports the 3-license Windows 7 Family Pack selling for just $133. (Source: cnet.com)

Most Businesses Plan License Upgrade

Not only IT representatives were included in the study. Those holding executive titles, including CEOs and CTOs, were also represented.

When asked by Directions on Microsoft how they plan to make the upgrade to Windows 7, less than half (38 per cent) said they'd simply buy new hardware with the OS pre-installed. The remainder predicted their companies would purchase licenses and keep their current hardware as it is -- an indication that many decision makers aren't quite that confident in the economy just yet.