Windows Vista - Strengths and Weaknesses

[Kalyan]

Windows Vista - Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths of Windows Vista

Improved Security

The new Windows Vista is a lot safer than the old Windows XP. With Windows Vista, limited permissions, Account Protection and Parental Control features finally make standard user accounts practical. Even administrators have reduced privileges as OS changes are limited and verified.

Better Graphics and Search Features

The new start menu also makes it easier for the user to browse through the available programs in the system through tree-like view of menus as opposed to the cascading windows style used in Windows XP. The search box is also a lot more effective since it uses incremental search to look for a particular file.

Aside from the incremental search feature, the new Windows Explorer also comes with a better file navigation system that lets one jump to anywhere within the directory hierarchy, live icons that enables one to see what's inside a folder by enlarging the icon and looking at the file thumbnails within, and new buttons that makes it easier to perform some common context-appropriate tasks.

The Flip 3D view in Vista now makes it easier for users to switch between windows and tasks. The users will see much better graphics in folder and window displays.

New Internet Browser

The Internet Explorer 7 also comes in equipped with tabbed browsing capabilities and better security features. Windows XP users can now try this new web browser by downloading it from Microsoft's site.

Improved Backup

The Backup and Restore Center of Vista, like Norton Ghost, encompasses complete backups with full disk imaging.

Weaknesses of Windows Vista

Security Program Lock

Perhaps the greatest weakness of Windows Vista is the limitations in OS control it places on non-Microsoft security programs like Norton and McAfee. Vista users will have to rely heavily on the effectiveness of Windows Defender and Firewall to protect them against Spyware and hackers.

Hardware and Software Incompatibilities

There are still a lot of hardware and software that will not be compatible to the new Windows Vista. Furthermore, Windows Vista may not be compatible yet with many of the other systems currently in use by most companies. For this reason, Vista users may be forced to use two operating systems in order to be able to keep using some programs.

Hardware Requirements

Upgrading to Windows Vista will also mean massive upgrades on the hardware itself. A bigger hard drive may be needed as the operating system itself needs at least 16 GB of space. RAM, processors, etc. may need to be upgraded in order to meet the minimum requirements for the installation of Vista. Users may also need to buy new Vista Certified or Vista Compatible hardware in order to maximize the use of the new OS.

Since there are not a lot of Vista-compatible hardware available in the market; users may be tempted to delay upgrading to the new system and wait for new hardware, software and drivers. They may also need to wait awhile for the bugs to be worked out before committing to an OS change.