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November 02, 2006
Vista: New Features
Windows Vista has many new and improved features. I am excited for Vista to be released in 2007, as there are 6 major improvements I am eager to explore:
- Graphics
I know I should care more about the new technical features, but I'm most excited about the new interface called AERO. A beautiful interface makes using the computer a more enjoyable experience. I would much rather write a ten page paper on a computer that's visually pleasing than the one that I have now (windows XP...it just doesn't compare to a mac in terms of the visual experience)
- Search Tools and Organization
In Vista, there are many organizational improvements. The start menu has a search tool, in which you can search for files or launch a program if you type in the program name. This is makes looking for resources very convenient. In addition, there are Live Icons that show the contents of a file before opening it, making the search for files less time consuming.
- Security
A major focus of Vista was to add more security features for the users. Microsoft now has more parental control options and allows users to have restricted permissions on networks and local computers. In addition, when programs write to protected areas, the writes are stored in a seperate area called the virtual store.
- Gadgets
Vista has many gadgets in the new window's sidebar which are readily accessible such as the weather, the time, a calendar, and a calculator. It's little touches like this that make life easier and more efficient.
In addition to the sidebar, window's has more advanced media features. Vista includes Windows Media Player, Windows Photo Gallery (which allows for the organization and editing of your pictures), and Windows Media Center (which connects your computer to your television, allowing you to listen to music, and look at photos on your tv!).
- System Tools
Vista makes backup and recovery of data easy! Users can set up automatic regular backups to protect their data and then recover them if needed in a simple process.
- System Requirements
Vista is the first operating system that adapts to the computer, a major accomplishment. This creates two types of PCs:
1) the capable PCs which use most of the Vista applications except for the AERO interface,
2)the premium PCs which can use all of Vista's features.Overall, I am very excited about the release of Window's Vista and I can't wait for all the bugs to be worked out so I can buy a copy!
-Stefanie Wiener
Posted by stwiener at November 2, 2006 08:14 PM