Microsoft Windows Vista

Windows Vista is the latest operating system developed by Microsoft and is due for commercial release early 2007. Microsoft addressed countless security concerns present in Windows XP by reinventing the Windows architecture. The result is a highly usable, configurable, aesthetically pleasing launching pad for all your data and media needs.

Get the most out of Vista by actively seeking benefits from the new features. Vista achieves the rare trick of delivering fun while increasing productivity. With Vista, users don't get lost so often, allowing them to absorb more information and learn how to operate features, settings and programs faster.

So what’s new in Vista?

Below are 15 hand picked new features in Vista.

    * AERO Graphics - Replaces XP's Luna Desktop
    * Windows Vista's Virtual Folders
    * Dialog box for Program name - Replaces 'Run'
    * ClickOnce
    * Task Dialogs
    * Better Event Logs
    * MMC - Move Up / Down
    * XImage and WDS
    * Restart Manager
    * User Account Control (UAC)
    * New Vista Explorer
    * Networking
    * Shadow Copy
    * Flip 3D
    * IE 7

AERO - Replaces XP's Luna Desktop

Vista's AERO delivers a new graphics engine to produce crisp new icons, menu and desktop visuals.  Vista's AERO achieves a rare balance of combining work with pleasure. Enjoy the experience at work or at home.

Vista's Virtual Folders

Virtual Folders are the result of part directory and part file query (Search) results. One recurring theme in Vista is the way one new feature enhances another. In this case, the AERO displays virtual folders in blue to separate the virtual from the physical.

Dialog box for Program name - Replaces 'Run'

In many ways this dialog box, is a smarter version of the 'Run' command. The idea of this dialog box is that if you type in just one letter then Vista lists all the programs beginning with that letter.  For example, if you wanted to execute Paint Shop Pro, you type 'P' in the dialog box and Vista instantly produces a list of all the programs beginning with 'P'. To reduce the results displayed, you may type more letters and invalid items disappear from the panel.

ClickOnce

Developers use Visual Studio to make installing programs easier - just ClickOnce. You may have already seen Authenticode messages if you install programs over the internet. ClickOnce combines with UAP, certificates and BITS to provide a fast, easy and secure installation experience. 

Task Dialogs

In Windows Vista ‘task dialogs’ replaces the error message box. Task Dialogs include troubleshooters and links to help you cure the problem. Related to Task Dialogs are a new generation of built-in diagnostics.  For example, help connecting to a network, or warning of certain disk failure.  The Task Dialog makes resolving most windows problems relatively simple.

Better Event Logs

For any given event, Vista has improved both the quality and quantity of information. There is now a better chance of understanding the problem and even more importantly, coming up with a solution.  Better logs mean there is no excuse for not troubleshooting a fault by a technician or consultant.

MMC move up / down

Previously, if you added another snap-in to your MMC it appeared at the bottom of the list. Move Up / Move Down buttons have been added to the console to allow for better navigation. Although this may seem a superficial improvement, many technicians will save hours of frustration.

XImag and WDS

XImage is a non-destructive concept whereby the image does not necessarily destroy all previous files. This means technicians can perform a clean install without having to fully backup data from the workstation. XImage should prove to be a fine replacement for most ghosting software.

Windows Deployment Services (WDS) is the successor to RIS.  The idea is to use Windows to dynamically manage Vista images, rather than rely on Ghost or other imaging software. 

Restart Manager

Tired of rebooting any time windows believes a major change to the operating system warrants a restart? Vista now has the Restart Manager, which shows Microsoft's commitment to improving 'Up Time'.  The Restart Manger is an extension of the services console in windows XP. The difference being services can now be restarted without losing services dependent on that service. Core functions of windows were previously impossible to restart in XP, which is why a reboot was required. Restart Manager negates the need to reboot in these instances.

User Account Control (UAC)

User Account Control is an improved system of 'Run As..', encouraging you to only use the minimum privileges and so making Vista more secure from rogue programs. This is especially valuable in the case of parental controls or restricting users to basic work operations.

Vista Explorer

Vista gives you a brand new Windows Explorer. You will immediately see the benefits of the upgraded icons, toolbars and navigation structure. You can sense all the ergonomic research that has resulted in the best ever Windows Explorer. Isolate exactly what you want with enhanced file information.

Networking

PNRP is the one genuine new technology in Vista

Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRP) is functions as a pseudo DNS, allowing hosts to discover one another. PNRP uses the Winsock 2 Namespace Provider API. At this stage, PNPR only works on IPv6. This function could be used for applications to find and connect with each other.

4 Other Network Technologies that have been extended or improved

   1. WWAN - Requires routers for the 'Big solution'.
   2. WLAN - Makes indoor connections
   3. VLAN - Allows devices on different LANs to communicate as if they were attached to the same wire. VLANs are based on logical instead of physical connections
   4. Wi-Fi - Uses radio frequencies 2.4Ghz IEEE 802.11g

Shadow Copy

The advantage of the Shadow copy technology is that it improves backup and enables Vista to create restore points on a volume by volume basis. This is far superior to the current System Restore process provided by Windows XP.

Flip 3D

Flip 3D is Vista's new way to Alt-Tab. The idea allows users to view thumbnails with better graphics. By holding Alt and Tabbing through your open programs, you will shift through rich graphical thumbnail views of your open tasks.

IE 7

The first noticeable IE 7 feature is the anti-phishing menu items and a flashing icon when IE7 verifies the integrity of a URL. With the sudden growth of sophisticated and tempting invitations to rogue sites, the added security is well received by one and all.

The benefit of this security feature is that rogue programs cannot execute anything without the user pressing OK.  Effectively, sites will no longer be able to hijack your home page and browser settings without your intervention. IE7 also includes a new tab feature which functions like Mozilla's Firefox. 

Packages & Pricing

Microsoft is intending to release more than six versions of Windows Vista: one for developing markets, two business systems, three for the home and some EU-specific packages which have Media Player removed. Below are the most common packages available to the marketplace.

Are the improvements in Vista worth upgrading from XP?

In Windows XP, security has become a major issue. Vista addresses the major networking deficiencies preventing businesses and consumers from feeling their privacy and confidential information is completely safe and secure. The addition of intuitive features enabling less computer literate users to become far more involved in the experience highly improves the workstation experience. Combine this with the crisp, lucent spectacle provided by Windows AERO and Vista users will not regret moving on to this highly improved Microsoft operating system. Find out how SIMCOM can tailor a Windows Vista installation to your needs today! Contact Us