Windows 7: Boost or Bust for Microsoft?

Windows 7 was formally launched on Thursday. But will the new operating system help computer users warm up to the company again after the lackluster response to Windows Vista?

CNET-TV senior editor Natali Del Conte said on "The Early Show" that, in CNET's six months of testing the system, it was found to be doing "really well."

Read CNET's full review of Windows 7.

She said, "I think people are really going to like it. It's a really light and fast operating system."

The new operating system would be a welcome boost for Microsoft. Their Windows Vista release two years ago got in users' way, Del Conte said, by asking for permission all the time to do everyday tasks, such as downloading a file or software.

"We had high hopes," she said. "But Vista was so secure that it got in your way. When you downloaded software, are you sure you you really want to do this? It was like just let me do what I want to do."

While upgrading from Windows XP is a bit more complex than going from Vista, Del Conte said you can get upgrade instructions on CNET's Windows 7 review. She explained you have to go straight from Vista to Windows 7 to attain the upgrade.

"Early Show" co-anchor Harry Smith pointed out that new computers will have Windows 7 on them from now on.

But will they upgrade again?

Del Conte said it'll happen, but probably not for at least two more years.