About Windows Vista
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Introduction
Windows Vista is not an upgrade to Windows XP, but is 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, Windows Aero, uses 3D graphics and other high-end visual effects to enhance your interaction with the operating system.
System requirements
Microsoft's system requirements for Vista are listed below. UITS has formulated system recommendations for those using Vista on the Indiana University network.
Microsoft lists Windows Vista hardware requirements in two categories, Vista Capable and Vista Premium Ready. Vista Capable computers are 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 800 MHz)
- 512 MB of system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable
- 20 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free space
- CD-ROM drive
Vista Premium Ready computers can 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:
- 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
UITS recommends: A dual-core (Core 2) processor
- 1 GB of system memory
UITS recommends: 2 GB system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable with Hardware
Pixel Shader v2.0 and WDDM Driver support
- 128 MB of graphics memory
UITS recommends: 256 MB graphics memory; non-integrated video card
- 40 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free space
UITS recommends: 80-100 GB capacity
- DVD-ROM drive
- Audio output capability
- Internet access capability
For more information from Microsoft about system requirements, see System requirements for Windows Vista.
Vista versions
For IU students, faculty, and staff, UITS recommends Vista Ultimate, which contains features not available in Vista Business (e.g., Windows Media Center). If you're upgrading from Vista Home Premium, you need to upgrade to Vista Ultimate (not Vista Business) if you want to keep Windows Media Center. For information about upgrading from an earlier version of Windows, see Microsoft's Installing and reinstalling Windows Vista.
For help, contact your campus Support Center.
For IU departments that support managed installations of Windows, UITS recommends Vista Enterprise.
