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As I watch the various comments across Twitter relating to Windows 7 one of the most regular ones I see is Windows 7 users wondering why there is no mail application in the operating system.

This was actually done on purpose.  The idea behind it is that by keeping applications like Mail separate from the operating system it would allow them to be updated more often.

So with this thought process you get the collection of applications called Windows Live Essentials.

One download, lots of great stuff. Now in one installation, Windows Live Essentials gives you instant messaging, e-mail, blogging, photos, and more.

The programs included in the Windows Live Essentials download are:

  • Windows Live Mail
    • Mail brings together your Hotmail, Gmail, and other accounts, along with multiple calendars.
  • Window Live Messenger
    • With Messenger, you can chat, swap photos, and see what’s new with friends.
  • Windows Live Writer
    • With Windows Live Writer, blogging is a breeze. You can add photos and videos, format everything just so, and publish to most blogging services.
  • Windows Live Photo Gallery
    • With Photo Gallery, it’s a snap to get your photos and videos from your camera to your PC. Find your favorite photos and share them with friends and family. Make your great photos look even better, and create impressive panoramic photos too.
  • Windows Live Movie Maker
    • Create movies and slide shows from your photos and videos, and share them with your friends and family.
  • Windows Live Toolbar
    • With Windows Live Toolbar, you always have quick access to Windows Live and Bing, no matter where you are on the web.
  • Family Safety
    • With Family Safety, you decide how your kids experience the Internet. Limit searches, monitor and block or allow websites, and decide who your kids can communicate with in Windows Live Spaces, Messenger, or Hotmail.

So there ya go – all those great to have programs in one convenient location for a centralized download.  Once you have installed the programs all updates will be delivered via Windows Update.