The features of Windows Vista have come out into the open and show a marked change from the older versions
This time Microsoft manages to impress with its graphical interface. This is not a small change as happened until the Windows XP update, but a real restyling. Now, however, we’re going to see what’s new in this new operating system.
AeroGlass
As said just before, AeroGlass is a strong change in this new version. It requires a system with good 3D capabilities, which means that those with older video cards won’t be able to enjoy it. Its colorful transparent interface is really pleasing to the eye.
In addition, the switcher (change applications using the Windows+TAB keys) allows you to navigate with a 3D interface in which applications are currently in use. The latter, however, as beautiful as it may be to look at, I find it a bit unusable, in the sense that upon activation you have to “browse” all the open applications to find the one that interests you. The minimized grid that displays all open programs at the same time is no longer present.
Research
Windows has implemented indexed search similar to that found in Mac OS X for quite some time now. This is a search that “searches” (precisely) in real time with typing. This allows you to find words found within documents as well as name, application names, e-mail.
UAC and Windows Defender
The User Account Control warns the user whenever an operation is being performed that may put the operating system at risk, such as deleting system files, or installing new software. I find it somewhat intrusive because it launches warnings when installing each application. Basically giving it the OK would still ruin the operating system, so I find it useless. You can disable UAC through the control panel.
Windows Defender is turned on by default, and should help protect against spyware and adware. I personally have little faith in this tool, so I recommend disabling it to make room for third-party software.
Minimum system requirements
Microsoft declares a minimum requirement with an 800 MHz processor, 512MB of RAM and 15GB of free HDD space for the Capable version, which allows use on slightly slower systems.
Given my experience with Windows, however, I recommend going heavy with a Dual Core processor, and at least 2GB of RAM, in order to take full advantage of the Premium Ready version.
Conclusions
It is a system that brings some novelty regarding the graphic environment, but I’m afraid it will bring many problems regarding stability. This is a clean change using the old guise of XP. In my opinion it is possible to start trusting in a few months, when corrective updates will already be available.
Update
Windows Vista was permanently retired on April 11, 2017. This means that Microsoft has no longer released security or feature updates for the operating system. Windows Vista users are therefore exposed to security risks and should upgrade their operating system to a newer version.