Windows Vista Training Courses
- Help and How-to
- Tips & Tricks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Windows Vista?
A: Windows Vista is the name of the new major version of Windows, and the successor to Windows XP.
Q: Is Windows Vista more secure than Windows XP?
A: Yes. Windows Vista builds on the security features in Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2) and Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1 (SP1) and adds some deep-seated security improvements that will finally make the Windows platform competitive with Linux and Mac OS X from a security standpoint. With Windows Vista, the system will inform users about security and privacy choices so they feel more confident that they are as secure as possible, and that their privacy is protected. The question, of course, is whether Windows Vista will be more immune to security threats than was XP. Only time will tell.
Q: Is Windows Vista designed more for consumers or business users?
A: Microsoft says that Windows Vista is a significant release for all 600+ million Windows users, regardless of whether they use Windows at home or at work. While this is no doubt true, and there are excellent security and deployment improvements in Windows Vista that will benefit business users, it's pretty clear to me that Windows Vista's most exciting changes are on the consumer side. For example, the system includes excellent new versions of Windows Media Player and Windows Movie Maker, as well as new applications like Windows Photo Gallery and Windows DVD Maker.
Q: Should I buy a Windows XP-based PC or should I buy one with Windows Vista pre-installed?
A: If you think you will be migrating to Windows Vista in the next year or less, you should buy a PC with XP. You will have a much better experience getting Windows XP now on a new PC than you will trying to find all the drivers for the hardware you already have. According to Microsoft, however, any "PC that meets current 'designed for Windows XP' logo requirements, has a mainstream or performance class CPU (dual core), 1GB of RAM, an 80GB or more hard drive, and a graphics card with at least 256 MB memory will run Windows Vista very well." Just be sure that the PC you purchase has the 'Designed for Windows XP / Windows Vista Capable' sticker.
Q: What are some reasons not to use Vista quite yet?
A: The biggest reason is that it's not complete. The hardware and software companies that make compatible products for Vista aren't all ready for the new operating system. Many of those companies are scrambling to complete Vista drivers and updates. Most important, not all video and sound card companies are ready. Also, it's expensive. Are you sitting down? The full version of Windows Vista Ultimate costs $399. If you have an XP CD, and don't mind the hassle, the upgrade version of Vista Ultimate costs $259. Ouch!
Q: What are some of Vista's most important new features?
A: All versions of Vista — including Starter — feature Microsoft's built-in firewall, which now blocks outbound traffic, theoretically preventing an attacker from taking control of your machine if he or she happens to gain access. Microsoft has also added malware protection to all versions of Vista by bundling its Windows Defender anti-spyware application with Vista. Finally, all versions of Vista include Internet Explorer version 7, which includes security features such as a filter for combating phishing scams. If you opt for one of the pricier Vista versions, you'll notice that the OS's interface now bears a resemblance to that of a Macintosh. Dubbed Aero, this interface displays thumbnails of all open windows and allows the user to flip through them. The Home versions of Vista also now include Microsoft Media Center features, which allow users to perform tasks such as burn DVDs, record TV, and organize or edit photographs.
Q: What Hardware requirements should I be looking for when purchasing a new Windows Vista machine?
A: Minimum Hardware Requirements as per TCI
Hard Drive: 80 GB
RAM: 1 GB
Processor: 2.0 GHz
