A little summary of the road to Windows Vista
• In 2001, Microsoft is rumored to be working on the next generation of Windows, codenamed Longhorn.
• Microsoft expects to release Longhorn in 2003 as a step between Windows XP and Vienna.
• August 2004, Microsoft announces major changes to Longhorn.
• In July 2005, Microsoft officially announces the name «Windows Vista» for its next operating system. A beta testing program was also announced.
• In January 2006, Microsoft announces all the features of Windows Vista.
• In May 2006, Windows Vista Beta 2 is released.
• In November 2006, Windows Vista business editions are released.
• In January 2007, Windows Vista home editions are released.
The new features of Windows Vista
1. Aero: Windows Aero is the name of a new user interface, with a professional look, transparent designs with some subtle effects like reflections and smooth animations. Also 3D desktop navigation.
two. Integrated search engine: feature that integrates searches throughout the operating system and provides new ways to organize files. This feature has two versions, one for business editions and one for home editions.
3. Tablet PC technology: allows handwriting recognition.
Four. BitLocker Drive Encryption: helps keep sensitive data from falling into the wrong hands if the computer is lost or stolen.
5. Virtual PC Express: tool that improves the compatibility of applications with previous versions of Windows, running them in a virtual environment. The tool is available in the Enterprise edition of Windows Vista.
6. Subsystem for UNIX applications: allows you to run UNIX applications on Windows Vista Enterprise.
7. Windows Media Center: Application that allows you to record or watch television shows. It also allows you to connect with the Xbox 360.
8. Integrated DVD burner.
9. Versions for 32 and 64 bits.
Windows Vista Editions
Windows Vista has six editions, two for business, three for consumers, and one for emerging markets. Each edition targets a specific market.
• Windows Vista Business: is designed for organizations of all sizes. It has the characteristics 1, 2, 3 and 9 .
•Windows VistaEnterprise: It is offered only to business customers who participate in Microsoft’s Software Assurance program. It has the characteristics 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 9 .
•Windows Vista HomeBasic: this edition is ideal for households with basic computing needs. It is for users who only use the PC for simple things like surfing the internet, email, etc.
• Windows Vista Home Premium: It allows complete functionalities to home users. It has the characteristics: 1, 2, 3, 8, 9
• Windows Vista Ultimate: This edition is the most complete. It has all the features mentioned above.
• Windows Vista Starter: this edition is designed for developing markets, especially low-cost computers.
For more information you can read:
• How to upgrade to Windows Vista
• Windows Vista minimum requirements
All About Windows: See all the information about Windows in all about windows.