Tech Watch: Is Vista Right for You?

New software debut
Is Vista Right for You?

With the debut of Microsoft’s latest Windows system, Vista, it’s time to consider whether you’re ready for an upgrade.

BY MIKE ANTONIAK

After much hype, Microsoft Corp. is set to officially release the latest rendition of its Windows operating system, Windows Vista, which is expected to be a significant upgrade over the Windows XP line that launched in 2001. Vista will be included in new PCs by the end of January and also offered as stand-alone software.

The software comes in many variations, from basic to full-featured, and offers hundreds of new features, including new multimedia tools such as Windows DVD Maker and an improved networking system that makes sharing files and digital media easier between computers.

One of its main upgrades is to its security features, which promise increased protection against viruses and security vulnerabilities — problems which plagued Windows XP.

So, will Microsoft’s latest operating system meet your real estate needs? And if so, what version of the software is best for you?

Your Vista Options

Depending on your present PC and the version of Windows you’re using, you will either have to purchase a full version of Vista, a less extensive upgrade, or trade your system for one with sufficient processing power and memory to run Vista. Here are some of your choices:

Vista Home Basic. This is the no frills edition that can meet basic computer needs — adequate enough if you’re limited to standard word processing and surfing the Web. As the foundation of all other versions of Vista, Home Basic includes tools for upgrading files and settings to Vista, searching and locating data wherever it resides in your computer, and new security features. The full version will be offered for $199, while the upgrade for qualified Windows XP users will cost $99.
Vista Home Premium. This version adds a new user interface called Windows Aero, which makes it easier to operate and navigate around your desktop and files. It also includes support for Tablet PCs with Windows Tablet and Touch technology, and Windows Media Center for using the computer as a hub for digital entertainment. Full version is $239, while the upgrade costs $159.
Windows Vista Business. This variation is designed to fit business needs with built-in security protection, including automatic system checks to warn you about the potential failure of any hardware components. It also includes an Aero interface, along with other features of the home versions, and has automated back-up tools to protect data. Suggested retail is $299 for the full version, $199 for an upgrade.
Windows Vista Ultimate. This is the fully loaded version, including all the same features of the home and business versions. Microsoft recommends it for those who want to use a single PC for all their computing needs, whether at home, in an office, or on the road. The full version carries a $399 price tag, while the upgrade is $259.

Questions to Consider

Release of a new operating system, especially one which marks such a significant break with the past, always presents a dilemma: You want the latest advances, but the transition can actually prove counter-productive, at least short term. Here are some items to consider before making any switch:

Is your computer Vista compatible?

Microsoft outlines the minimum hardware requirements for “Vista capable” computers, including an 800MHz processor and 512MB RAM. But minimum standards are only enough to get you started. To take full advantage of Vista, Microsoft recommends “Windows Vista Premium Ready PCs” with specs, for example, of a 1GHz processor and 1GB RAM. At Microsoft's Web site, XP users can download the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor to determine the compatibility of your computer and identify which Vista version best matches your system.

Is your other software compatible?

Determine if the special real estate applications you use are compatible with Vista. Problems can arise when running software designed for an older operating system on a newer one. Make a list of your essential software and contact the vendors or visit their Web sites to determine whether they can guarantee the software is completely compatible with Vista and when they will offer a new version or upgrade to take advantage of Vista’s new features.

Can you afford to upgrade?

Compile the price of any hardware and software upgrades you’ve identified, along with the cost of the recommended version of the new operating system. Then, decide if your budget will be better spent on a new computer with Vista or to equip an older system for Vista compatibility.

Are there other options you should explore?

If you’re a dedicated Windows PC user, you probably will want to upgrade to Vista sometime in the future. But after a thorough evaluation of your present hardware and software, you may decide to stick with Windows XP until you’re ready for a new computer. However, if you’re not completely satisfied with your past Windows experience, consider alternate operating systems like Linux for PCs or OSX available on Apple computers.

Do you have the time to upgrade?

One final caveat: Migrating to a new computing environment can introduce unforeseen challenges. Allow sufficient time to explore features and master new ways of doing things. When you rush, or carry unreasonable expectations, the transition to any new operating system can prove frustrating and disruptive, undermining the benefits you hope to gain from the move.

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Do you have technology you’d like to learn more about or a new user twist that you’d like to share with your peers? Let me know about it by e-mailing antoniak@dtccom.net, and I’ll do my best to give it the coverage it deserves.