It seems that only a short time has flown by and you’re still getting used to your Windows XP and now here’s a very much talked about, eagerly awaited, brand new operating system from Microsoft called Windows Vista. With almost five years between the release of Windows XP and the scheduled release of Windows Vista on January 2007, this has been the longest period of update/upgrade in the history of Microsoft’s operating systems. In view of this time delay, what changes should you expect from Windows Vista?

First, Microsoft introduces Windows Aero, the graphical user interface that is at the heart of Windows Vista. It employs a translucency effect on your windows thereby enabling you to see what’s underneath. It comes in handy if you’re the type who works with a lot of windows open. If you prefer the feel of the older versions, Windows Vista allows you to choose from several set-ups and displays reminiscent of Windows XP, 2000 and 98. If you’re not too keen on this or your PC becomes too bogged down by all the processes needed to enable the technique, you can simply turn this feature off either temporarily or permanently.

The second priority of Windows Vista is the much-improved security performance as compared with its predecessor, Windows XP. Many of the security vulnerabilities that users have experienced in Windows XP like viruses and such are now a thing of the past, or at least your system will be better guarded and protected in the future.

There are also new additions and improvements in the desktop functions. Windows Explorer has been totally revamped to incorporate better organizing, searching and navigating abilities. “Gadgets” are those small applications that you need at any given time like weather, calendar, calculator and even sports scores and can be placed anywhere on the desktop.

Upgraded versions of Internet Explorer, Media Player, Windows Mail (formerly Outlook Express) are also included in the system. New programs like Windows DVD Maker and Windows Media Center are designed to optimize the new graphics capability of Windows Vista. Windows Mobility Center is built-in to take advantage of mobile computing. There are also new fonts and games and even Parental Control to allow parents to regulate their kids’ usage of the computer.

Most of these changes are beneficial to end-users especially if you appreciate graphics and animation. But all these eye candy come at a price, of course. The core technologies that make these improvements work are designed with their eye on the future and programmers surely have a better understanding of and appreciation for them. Some performance enhancers include “SuperFetch” which tracks most used programs and auto-loads them and “ReadyBoost” and “ReadyDrive” which optimize flash drive memory to act as a buffer for caching. Networking has also been improved especially redesigned to accommodate built-in WiFi support. You should also look forward to Vista’s compatibility with BluRay and HD DVD devices.

Over-all, newer computers are most likely able to handle the system requirements for Windows Vista which are quite heavy on the graphics and memory. However, if you need to buy a new PC make sure that your processor has a minimum 800 Mhz and memory of 512Mb RAM to be able to run a basic Windows Vista capable PC. Anything higher than that already guarantees a working Windows Vista system.

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