There are many computer users, who haven’t switched yet to Windows 7. The reasons may be presented next. Anyway, if you have Windows XP and you want something more from your Microsoft operating system, you can try Vista. Vista was originally known as Longhorn, the code name used by Microsoft before July 2005. It has many new features not included in XP. Some of these features are: sophisticated graphics, search tools and better organization, improved security, easier access to information and applications, new functions and new multimedia tools, improved tools for system backups, updates, and more.
An exciting feature is Windows Aero, a new interface which presents a new visual style. With Aero, Vista is intended to be easy to use, but more visually pleasant.
Some of the most interesting effects of Windows Aero are the semi-transparent windows and Flip 3D. The semi-transparent windows let you see what is under the active window. Flip 3D navigation is similar to tab browsing through open windows, but they display the image of the programs opened in 3D.
Windows Aero is only available on Premium Ready PCs and not on Capable PCs. Better organization and search are delivered by this new system. The Start menu includes a search field that you can use to run programs or find files. You can save searches in search files and the search will be executed when you open the file. The icons will show what is in the files before opening them, making it very easy to find the appropriate file.
There are also some improvements in terms of security over XP, which is part of a better control of user accounts. In Windows XP you should choose the stringent limitations of a limited number of accounts or the risk of a single account management. In Vista you can use the standard account for common tasks and you will be required an administrative password before you complete an action that could harm your computer.
It is also easier to access information and programs. Besides the improved search and file search system, Windows Sidebar and Gadgets make easier the access to information such as weather or a date on your calendar. It’s easier to run programs that are also installed in Windows XP. In XP you needed to search through a huge list of programs from the Start menu. In Vista, just type the first letters of the program and the integrated search will find your program.
Windows XP was released before digital media truly flourished and applications like Windows Media Player or Windows Movie Maker show that. All these applications were rebuilt and were given a new life in Windows Vista.
There are improved tools for backup and restore. The Windows Backup feature has been restored to reflect the increasing size of hard drives and can provide automatic backup for your files for a variety of media types. System Restore is also easier to use and protects you better against the loss of information, than does Windows XP.
Vista is the first operating system released by Microsoft that adapts to the computer that is used. Because it adapts to your computer’s needs, Microsoft makes the difference between Capable and Premium Ready. The Capable computers use most features, but only the Premium ones can benefit of the Windows Aero features.
