Windows Vista: The Complete Reference (Complete Reference Series)

If you didn't buy a computer with Windows Vista already installed, you face the task of installing Windows Vista-either installing it on a blank hard disk or upgrading your existing operating system. This appendix explains your installation options and how to install or upgrade to Windows Vista. The Install Windows wizard runs for several hours (depending mainly on the speed of your DVD drive). You'll also find out what Windows Vista's hardware requirements are.

During installation, Microsoft's product activation system requires you to check in with Microsoft so that your copy of Windows Vista can be "locked" to your particular computer. If you are replacing an old computer with a new one, you may want to use the Files And Settings Transfer Wizard to help you move your files to Windows Vista after the installation process completes.

What Versions Are Available?

Windows Vista comes in several different versions. The installation DVD includes all these versions. However, you must have the proper product activation key to unlock the version you purchased. For example, if you purchase Windows Vista Basic and you install Windows Vista Ultimate, your product activation key will not work. The following describes each version:

• Windows Vista Starter is available in 119 emerging markets and includes features that help new users use their computer. Microsoft does not plan to sell this version in the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and other world markets that have high income levels.

• Windows Vista Home Basic includes basic features, such as features allowing you to easily set up Internet connections, features to set up parental controls, and ways to create documents. Many of the advanced Windows Vista features, however, are not included with Home Basic.

• Windows Vista Home Premium provides your computer with Media Center so you can turn your computer into a media hub. Home Premium includes the new Vista Aero design.

• Windows Vista Business is primarily suited for the business user . It includes security tools and Microsoft Backup. However, it does not include the media tools, such as Windows Photo Gallery.

• Windows Vista Ultimate includes everything, including business tools, multimedia features, and Aero. Vista Ultimate is a hybrid of Vista Business and Home Premium. It lets you use your computer as a media center, but has the enhanced business features, too.

• Windows Vista Enterprise boasts drive encryption and other high-end features, such as compatibility mode.