Question

Can you give a brief description of the new Windows Vista operating system? What requirements does it have to be able to run it?

Answer

Windows Vista is the new operating system release by Microsoft, which promises an easier user interface, better communication, safety from viruses and attacks, provides more "entertainment," and supports latest technologies in gaming such as HD video. The down side to Vista is that it requires about 15 gigs of storage for it to install. It also requires a high-end machine in terms of specifications for it to run smoothly. Most of the student machines on campus won't be able to run the Vista Business Edition which we would probably recommend in the future due to the compatibility with our network.

Q

What makes Windows Vista better the Windows XP?

A

Again it's supposed to be the new version of Windows XP so, a whole lot of things have been changed and what is supposed to be better is the user interface. It's supposed to be better connected and safer than XP.

Q

Why should we upgrade to Vista? Would you recommend upgrading to Vista?

A

I have been testing out Beta versions of Vista since summer, and, honestly, it would be unreasonable to upgrade right away because of Microsoft's record of coming out with security patches within few weeks of any releases they have. If anyone wanted to upgrade, I would recommend they wait until summer.

Q

What are the security risks of getting Vista right now? Do you expect it to be vulnerable to hackers? If so, will there be a service pack anytime soon to address such issues?

A

As of right now I haven't heard of any major security risks. I am sure however that there are hackers who are working on figuring out the holes and vulnerabilities.

Q

Will you be installing Vista on campus computers anytime soon?

A

We do not plan to install Vista in all of the labs at this time. The first lab we will put it in will be in the TLT (Computer Help Center). Then we will go from lab to lab from there if everything goes smoothly.

Q

Any additional things not mentioned above that we should know about Vista?

A

Speaking behalf of Campus Technology, I would say that if you plan to buy a new computer that will come with Vista, I would wait until summer. We as a campus haven't tested the full version of Vista with our network and we need to do that before we can provide support for it. This is to make sure that the students, staff, and faculty computers are all safe and secure. So as of right now we do not provide support for Windows Vista. We recommend that you still stick with Windows XP Pro if you plan to use your computer on campus.