Windows Vista

 You may have heard or read about Microsoft’s new operating system, Windows Vista. The release is coming up soon (expected Feb. 2007) and many people have lots of questions.

The current version of Windows (XP) is not going anywhere for awhile. Microsoft has always continued to support each of their operating systems for at least several years after the release of a new version. There is no reason to think that you need to rush out and purchase the new version when it becomes available. New software and hardware will continue to work under Windows XP.

The number one thing that you should really look at if you are thinking about upgrading to Vista is if you PC will support it. Vista has substantially higher hardware requirements than Windows XP. The recommended system requirements are:

Intel / AMD processor at 1GHz or higher (32bit or 64bit)
1GB of RAM
DirectX 9 capable video card with 128MB of video RAM
40 GB hard drive with 15 GB of free space available
DVD-ROM Drive

If you do have less than the recommended hardware, chances are that you can still run Vista, but you may not be able to take full advantage of all of the new features. For example, if you have less than 128MB of video RAM, you will not be able to use the new Aero interface. Which means you won’t get animated 3D windows, and other eye pleasing effects that are now built into Windows.

The next thing that you might consider in you decision to upgrade to Vista is the cost. Here is the break down of the current price structure for Windows Vista:

The major differences between the edition of Vista you buy are; Home Basic is the most stripped down version you can buy. Home Premium adds the Media Center functions as well as the new Aero interface. Business edition lacks the Media Center functions but gives you the business networking and remote desktop features needed in the workplace. Ultimate edition wraps everything up into one expensive package.

Here are some of the benefits of upgrading to Windows Vista. The new Aero interface, which gives you the ability to make windows transparent and add 3D and animated effects to windows and menus. Searching for file, emails, notes, etc will now be much faster and smarter. Network Map is a great way to get an overview of your network and its devices. Connecting to multiple wireless networks and hotspots is now very simple. As far as security goes, it is the biggest benefit of Vista. You get a decent firewall, a better browser, and a lot of behind the scenes changes to make your PC more secure than ever.

Business owners should not worry about upgrading to Windows Vista unless the new features are needed. As mentioned before, Windows XP will still be around for quite some time. Migrating to Vista can be performed as you replace outdated or damaged PCs.

For any other questions or concerns about Windows Vista or any IT related info. Please call us at Idea Solutions 1-888-535-4332

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