About Windows Vista

What is Windows Vista?

Windows Vista is an operating system, also known as an OS, which gives your computer the power to run your favourite programs and perform basic tasks.

Windows Vista can help you manage files, connect devices - such as printers, digital cameras and storage devices - and create a home network. Vista also helps manage your computer's security so all of your information remains secure.

In other words, Vista works to make your life easier, safer, more entertaining and better connected. It provides the tools you need to better use, manage, and share information on your PC and on the web.

• Time to perk up your version of Vista! Download Service Pack One
• Why upgrade to Vista? Check it out!
• How can I see some of the features?
• How can I upgrade to Windows Vista?
• Which version of Vista is right for me?
• How do I know if I have Windows Vista?
• How do I know which edition of Windows Vista I am using?
• Is my operating system genuine? If not, how do I get a real one?
• How do I know what hardware and software is compatible with Windows Vista?
• Security with Windows Vista
• Windows-based products
• Free downloads for Windows Vista
• Related articles and tips

Download Windows Vista Service Pack One (SP1)

SP1 is a free download for Windows Vista users that offers a unique combination of safety, entertainment, ease-of-use and mobility features to improve your experience with Windows Vista. This update addresses many of the most common causes of operating system errors. After downloading SP1, you will notice that more applications, devices and software programs are compatible with Windows Vista. Windows Vista with SP1 makes using your PC safer and more reliable.

If you are not running the Windows Vista operating system, you don’t need to download SP1. However, all new copies of Windows Vista will have SP1 installed, so it’s a great time to think about upgrading. Browse our product catalogue for more information.

Why upgrade to Vista?

Windows Vista is the most secure Microsoft OS to date, has a great new interface and a redesigned search tool. Read the following articles for an inside look at everything Vista has to offer.

• If you want to know more about this operating system, read our article All aboard for Windows Vista!
• Not sure if you’re ready to take the plunge? Consider using the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor
• If children are using the computer, make sure you have a look at Parental Controls.
• Make sending and receiving e-mail easier with Windows Mail.
• Visit the Vista Help and How-to section for advice and troubleshooting.
• Check out 100 great reasons why Windows Vista will leave you speechless.

How can I see some of the features?

Click here to experience some of the new and exciting features Vista has to offer. From gaming and music, to security and productivity, these interactive demos allow you to see some of the ways Windows Vista can help you, your family and your business.

How can I upgrade to Windows Vista?

The Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor will help you determine if your Windows XP-based PC can run Windows Vista. You can also use the Upgrade Advisor to see if you are able to upgrade your current Windows Vista-based PC to a more powerful version of Vista.

To start, download and install the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor, and visit the Vista supported system requirements to find out what the minimum requirements are to run your chosen edition of Vista.

Which version of Vista is right for me?

There are four different versions of Windows Vista, each one building on the features in the previous one. For more information about what each version has to offer, visit Vista editions — which one is for you ?

How do I know if I have Windows Vista?

To find out which edition of Windows Vista is running on your computer, go to Start > Control Panel > System.

How do I know which edition of Windows Vista I am using?

To find out which edition of Windows Vista is running on your computer, go to Start > Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Welcome Center.

Your edition of Windows Vista will be displayed near the top of the window, along with other computer information.

Is my operating system genuine? If not, how do I get a real one?

A legal version of an operating system protects you from threats such as Trojan horses and spyware, and gives you access to updates, product enhancements and technical support.

To find out if you have a genuine copy of Windows, visit www.microsoft.com/genuine and click on Validate Windows. If your copy of Windows does not pass the validation check, you will receive a message that explains

• why the validation check failed
• other steps to try
• how you can obtain a genuine copy of Windows

Windows users who discover that their copies of Windows are not genuine have three options.

1. Users who have purchased a fully assembled PC with a previously installed counterfeit, pirated or otherwise illegal or unlicensed copy can obtain Microsoft’s Get Genuine Kit for Windows XP Professional and Windows Vista Business. The kit is available through resellers who sell genuine Microsoft software.
2. Users who have purchased a copy of Windows that turns out to be counterfeit can apply to resellers to receive a complimentary copy of Windows. Customers will be required to submit a proof of purchase, the counterfeit CD and a counterfeit report with details of their purchase. Only high-quality counterfeit versions of Windows will qualify for the complimentary offer.
   This offer is available for Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business and Windows Vista Ultimate.
3. If you cannot provide proof of purchase, the counterfeit CD and details of your purchase, then you may buy Microsoft’s Windows Genuine Advantage Kit at a special online price. The kit will allow you to convert your counterfeit copy to a genuine version of Windows. This offer is available for Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business and Windows Vista Ultimate.

How do I know what hardware and software is compatible with Windows Vista?

When you move to a new operating system, knowing what software or hardware to purchase is very important. After all, you want to know that your new webcam, game or mouse will work once you get it home.

Devices that carry the Certified for Windows Vista logo have been tested to ensure they work with Windows Vista, so you know they will be compatible, reliable, and more secure.

If you're wondering whether a product you own or want to buy is compatible with Windows Vista, use the Windows Vista Compatibility Center to guide your purchases.

Take a look at some of the reasons to buy products that carry the Certified for Vista logo.

Get more information on products that are compatible with Windows Vista.

Security with Windows Vista

• Learn more about how Windows Defender can help keep your PC safe.
• Find out how Parental Controls help keep your kids safer while using the computer.

Windows-based products

• Get an all-in-one home entertainment system with a Media Center PC.
• Get the latest Microsoft Windows operating system for home or office.

Free downloads for Windows Vista

• Make your online experience smoother with Internet Explorer 7.
• Personalize the Windows Vista Sidebar with fun and helpful gadgets.
• Get more out of your movies, music and photos with Windows Media Player 11.
• Start chatting with friends and family using Windows Live Messenger.
• Create your own blog in minutes with Windows Live Spaces.
• Find anything you need on the web with Bing.
• Search safely from any webpage with Windows Live Toolbar.