Microsoft Releases Windows Vista

Microsoft officially releases Windows Vista today. Available in a half-dozen different versions, the new desktop operating system is sure to confuse already perplexed consumers and complicate business licensing. However, some type of update is long overdue, as the five-year-old (two years is forever in the technology industry) Windows XP OS had become very long in-the-tooth. Repeated updates, patches and hotfixes made the OS buggy at best and error-prone at its worst.

What's new? There are quite a few new Windows features. From improved security controls and update management to color matching, transparent windows and an integrated desktop search, Windows users will appreciate many of the operating system's new features and utilities.

Mac advocates, meanwhile, will rightfully remind anyone willing to listen that most every feature being introduced in Vista has long been available in Mac OS X. Ultimately, Vista will prove a better fit within Windows server domains, and that will help drive adoption. That's likely one of the leading reasons Microsoft elected to distribute the new OS first via its established business channels (the consumer versions will not be available until January 30th, 2007).

So, if you're looking to purchase a new computer this holiday season, you're likely going to be purchasing a Windows XP system that will be outdated 30 days after you buy it. Fortunately, in an effort to lure holiday buyers, Microsoft and its channel partners are offering most anyone who purchases a new PC between now and the end of January free Vista upgrade vouchers. If you are, indeed, purchasing a new PC this holiday season, do not purchase from a vendor that cannot supply you with the free Vista voucher. Or, better yet, just call Computer Troubleshooters. Not only will they ensure you get the right PC for your needs, but they'll negotiate a competitive price, drop it off and configure it for you!