Information about Windows Vista

Windows Vista, the newest version of Windows, 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 known as Windows Aero will be available that uses 3D graphics and other high-end visual effects to enhance your interaction with the operating system.

Microsoft's system requirements for Vista are listed below. UITS has formulated IU-specific system recommendations for those who plan to use Vista on the IU network.

Microsoft lists Windows Vista hardware requirements in two categories, Vista Capable and Vista Premium Ready. Vista Capable computers will be 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 will be able to 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:

For information about Windows Vista availability at IU, see Information about Windows Vista and Office 2007 availability to the IU community. UITS will continue to support Windows 2000 and XP for some time after the release of Windows Vista.

Also see:

• How can I know if my current computer and software are compatible with Windows Vista?
• Can I use Symantec AntiVirus or Ghost with Windows Vista?
• Known issues with Windows Vista at IU
• In Windows Vista, how can I turn on the classic Windows menu bar?
• In Windows Vista, what is Windows Mobile Device Center?
• Why has my antivirus client stopped working after I did an upgrade install of Windows Vista?
• Where can I find tutorials to help me learn about Windows Vista?