Windows Vista

Microsoft's new operating system Windows Vista, due out in early 2007, will replace Windows XP.

Windows XP had two versions: standard and professional. Whereas the new release will come in 6 versions (editions):

• Windows Vista Ultimate-Combines the best business features, and all of the best home entertainment features.

• Windows Vista Enterprise

• Windows Vista Business

• Windows Vista Home Premium - Has everything of the basic version but includes a new graphical interface called Aero. It will also incorporate DVD burning features and features for handling music, photos and videos.

• Windows Vista Home Basic- For basic document editing and Internet access.

• Windows Vista starter- For low powered PCs used in developing countries.

Most of us will be using the Home Basic or Premium editions and they are the versions likely to be sold with new PCs.

Upgrading and Upgrade Costs

Upgrading to a new operating system costs both time and money. A recent article estimated the dollar costs of upgrading a between $250-$900.

That's not including the time costs and the danger of losing data along the way.

Should You Upgrade?

I'm not a big fan of upgrading PCs. I find it much easier to  use the old one as long as possible and then buy a new one. Microsoft and hardware manufactures like upgrades as it make them money.

To encourage you to upgrade Microsoft will remove support for the old OS 2 years after a new one is released. This means that mainstream support for Windows XP will end in early 2009 provided Vista ships in  early 2007.

A lot can happen in the Computer world in that time and I personally will be wait until I need to buy a new PC before I experience windows Vista.

Related Articles and Resources:

• windows editions Microsoft
• windows editions BBC
• Support Lifecycle Microsoft products.
• Techweb article on upgrading on staying with XP