Windows Vista is Here

Microsoft hasn’t released a major update to Windows since October 2001 so with the January 2007 launch of the new Windows Vista Microsoft promises to revolutionize the way people use computers for work and play. Windows Vista comes in five different versions and has some pretty hefty system requirements. To make sure to choose the version that has the new features and applications you want to use or determine if your current system is up to snuff visit the Windows Vista Get Ready Web Page.

Why are folks excited about Windows Vista? Those of us who work at the IT Help Desk look forward to security improvements such as User Account Control (UAC) that has your computer perform tasks at the lowest user level possible and prompts for an administrator login and password when installing software. UAC combined with Windows Defender, an improved Windows Firewall and Internet Explorer 7’s protected mode combine to help keep malware off your computer. Others are excited about Windows Aero features in the new user interface that provide window transparency, animations and other layout features. Hardware fans are excited about one of the more innovative features – Readyboost that allows you to use a USB Flash drive as virtual memory to help speed up your system. Everyone will like the improvements in searching. Search as you type searching is integrated into the Start menu and most Windows Explorer windows.

Currently, Windows Vista is compatible with the Lewis & Clark network and required software such as Clean Access Agent and Symantec Antivirus. If you require support from IT beyond basic connectivity or use an computer provided by Lewis & Clark, contact us prior to upgrading to determine what level of support we can provide.

 

Created by: consult@lclark.edu

Updated: 24 August 2005