Windows Vista Compared to Windows

Windows Vista

Vista compared to Windows XP

The Windows Vista operating system was developed to address a number of issues that were felt to be lacking in the previous Windows XP version. These include not only internal management and security issues also a number of cosmetic aspects, including an effort to take the new operating system more user-friendly in a number of ways.

Vista shipped with a wide array of new features to attract users from XP. Among these, some of the most significant include the following: the new Aero graphical user interface, which provides a much more slick and interactive user experience; the Parental Controls as well as the new Windows Mobility Center and the Windows Vista Sync Center (Vista vs. XP - Feature Comparison. A few Vista upgrade arguments).

From a more practical and computer management point-of-view there is little doubt that Vista also provides superior performance when compared to XP. This is facilitated by a more integrated architecture and aspects such a Windows SuperFetch, Automatic Disk Defragmentation and Windows ReadyBoost support. (Vista vs. XP - Feature Comparison. A few Vista upgrade arguments).

There are many other assets that can be mentioned. Where Vista however succeeds in outperforming XP is in a number of central facets and components that have taken this OS to new levels of usability. A good example is the new integrated search facility that is easily accesibel from the interface and allows for rapid searches and a slick way of accessing errant data. The seemingly instantaneous indexing process has also been applauded by critics ( Windows Vista). Another feature that simplifies operating use is the "All Programs" facility in the start menu. This is an improvement on the Windows XP version, which became difficult to use with more than ten programs (Windows Vista). Vista has also improved on other management features, including the alt-tab function, and Windows Switcher. The latter feature provides a graphic way of viewing all open windows which makes selection more accessible.

Vista also includes security facilities and programs, such as Windows Defender, a built-in spyware blocker. Usability is also increased by the introduction of Windows Calendar, which a basic but useful calendar application.

Security has been one of the selling points of Vista from the outset and during development. In this regard Vista provides some useful control features; such as setting up every user as an administrator by default and the User Account Control feature. The User Control limits application software to standard user privileges until an administrator authorizes a higher privelage level. This useful feature prevents "…users from making inadvertent changes to system settings and locks down the computer to prevent unauthorized applications from installing or performing malicious actions" (Morejon).

However, initial tests of the Vista security protection have not always shown positive results. As one critic has noted; "Vista remains riddled with holes, despite its multilayer security architecture and embedded security tools. Besides providing no improvement in virus protection vs. XP, Vista brings little or no security gains over its predecessor ..." (Morejon). It should also be noted that subsequent upgrades and fixes have to a large extent helped to remedy this problem.