Application Compatibility

Application Compatibility Engagement (ACE) is a 2 to 3 day free consulting engagement in which one of our Windows Vista deployment partners will assess potential compatibility problems with your current software, and make recommendations on remediation projects.

Step 1: Start by reviewing the Getting Started with Window Vista Application Compatibility card to understand overview of application compatibility testing process.

Step 2: Fill out an ISV Application Compatibility Form, if you'd like to work with an ACE Partner. Alternately, you can select one from our list of Microsoft partners.

Questions on ACE? Email us.

Step 1: Follow the steps illustrated in Application Compatibility Enterprise Guidance for third-party applications compatibility.

Step 2: Check the Windows Vista Application Readiness Web Site for a comprehensive list of Windows Vista ready applications.

Step 3: Complete and submit the ISV Application Compatibility Form, if you are not able to find your software on the Windows Vista Applications Readiness site. A Microsoft U.S. Windows Vista team member will follow up with you shortly and provide the compatibility information on your software.

Enterprise Guidance for Application Compatibility Testing and Windows Vista SP1. This white paper provides enterprise customers guidance for testing applications on the currently available versions of Windows Vista and Windows Vista with Service Pack 1.

Jumpstart deployment with the help of a Microsoft partner. Our partners work with you on everything from planning an efficient and effective deployment of Windows XP and Office 2003 to managing the cost, risk, and complexity of your desktop infrastructure.

Find a Desktop Deployment Partner 

Are you a partner interested in becoming Application Compatibility certified? For more information, please visit How to become an ACE.

Making the move from Windows XP to Windows Vista with Service Pack 1 is easier than you think

Plain and simple? Windows Vista with Service Pack 1 (SP1) is the most secure, reliable, compatible operating system Microsoft has ever released.

• Improvements in security help protect your business and keep your data safer
• Powerful enhancements to mobility make it faster and easier to work virtually anywhere
• Enhanced compatibility and desktop management features help increase productivity by making it easier to find, manage, and share information
• Improvements in PC performance help you get more done in less time

Learn more 

After June 30, 2008, Windows XP editions will no longer be preinstalled on PCs or available for separate purchase, and after April of 2014, Microsoft will no longer offer support. So there's never been a better time to make the move to Windows Vista with SP1. And remember, the sooner you migrate, the sooner you can start enjoying the benefits.

Learn more 

There are plenty of guides and tools available to help make your transition to Windows Vista with SP1 as seamless as possible. For starters, Microsoft partners offer comprehensive deployment services that include:

• Initial software and hardware assessments to determine compatibility
• On-site assistance with implementation and training
• Ongoing support from Microsoft

Find a partner 

Additional tools and resources