Is Vista for you?
Ultimately, the great majority of home computer owners will have a Vista system because almost all new PCs are going to come with it already installed. Microsoft has too great a hold on the market for its dominance to be going away. Nonetheless, there are viable alternatives and they are discussed here.
Upgrade now or wait for new computer?
There are many reasons for home PC users to avoid upgrading and to wait until they
need a new computer. The pros and cons of upgrading are discussed here.
Vista versions and system requirements
There are a variety of Vista versions with different system requirements. These are summarized here.
Vista performance
Vista has some added features that should help performance. However, it is also more demanding on the hardware. The pros and cons are discussed here.
Vista security features
One of the strongest selling points for Vista may be its greater security. However, there are some possible drawbacks as well. The new security features are described here.
Vista visual effects
The most obvious and perhaps most publicized feature of Vista is its new look and visual effects. The new graphics and the increased system requirements are discussed here.
Vista tips and tweaks
Windows systems are highly configurable and everybody has their favorite tweaks. I will post some of my favorites on this page.
Slide show on current status of Vista
A PowerPoint presentation, "Windows Vista- a Report Card", (November, 2008). An assessment of Vista after SP1 and the relationship to Windows 7.