About Windows Vista
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Introduction
Windows Vista is not an upgrade to Windows XP but an entirely new operating system. If you use Windows XP, you should find many similarities with Vista and expect to gain greater functionality in the areas of communication, multimedia, and security. A new interface, Windows Aero, uses 3D graphics and other high-end visual effects to enhance your interaction with the operating system.
System requirements
Microsoft's system requirements for Vista are listed below. UITS has formulated system recommendations for those using Vista on the Indiana University network.
Microsoft lists Windows Vista hardware requirements in two categories, Vista Capable and Vista Premium Ready. Vista Capable computers are able to run Vista, but may have limitations in the functionality of some new features. Vista Capable minimum hardware requirements are as follows:
- A modern processor (at least 800MHz)
- 512MB of system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable
- 20GB of hard drive capacity with 15GB free space
- CD-ROM drive
Vista Premium Ready computers can take full advantage of the new features available in Vista, including the Windows Aero advanced graphical interface. Microsoft lists the minimum hardware requirements for Vista Premium as follows; UITS recommends further requirements as noted:
- 1GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
UITS recommends: A dual-core (Core 2) processor
- 1GB of system memory
UITS recommends: 2GB system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable with Hardware
Pixel Shader v2.0 and WDDM Driver support
- 128MB of graphics memory
UITS recommends: 256MB graphics memory; non-integrated video card
- 40GB of hard drive capacity with 15GB free space
UITS recommends: 80-100GB capacity
- DVD-ROM drive
- Audio output capability
- Internet access capability
For more information from Microsoft about system requirements, see Windows Vista Buying and Upgrade Options.
UITS will to support Windows XP and 2000 for some time after the release of Windows Vista.
Microsoft has announced that it will provide security patches and updates to Windows XP until April 2014.
Vista versions
For IU students, faculty, and staff, UITS recommends Vista Ultimate, which contains features not available in Vista Business (e.g., Windows Media Center). If you're upgrading from Vista Home Premium, you need to upgrade to Vista Ultimate (not Vista Business) if you want to keep Windows Media Center. If you have questions, contact your campus Support Center. For information about upgrading from an earlier version of Windows, see Microsoft's Upgrade Advisor.
For IU departments that support managed installations of Windows, UITS recommends Vista Enterprise.
Last modified on September 25, 2009.
