Microsoft Windows Vista is the latest release of the Microsoft operating system and we are pleased to announce that Vista will be supported for faculty and staff on new computers effective August 2008.

Windows Vista includes a new interface, file handling, and additional features which make it look and perform in a markedly different manner than previous versions of Windows. Microsoft offers five versions of Windows Vista, and the university has selected Vista Business and Vista Enterprise as the versions supported on university-owned computers.

Windows Vista has very robust hardware and software requirements; as a result not all university computers can accommodate an upgrade to Windows Vista. Vista will initially be deployed on newly purchased computers; upgrades will then be handled by each Technology Coordinator on a case-by-case basis beginning in Spring 2009, to ensure both compatibility and that customers experience a smooth transition.  Customers are encouraged to contact their Technology Coordinator prior to purchasing a new computer or Vista upgrade software.

Please refer to the following links to help answer questions about the Vista operating system features, support, and compatibility:

• An overview of Microsoft Vista.
• Is my version of Vista supported?
• I want to purchase a new computer running Windows Vista.
• Is my computer hardware Vista compatible?
• Are my applications compatible with Windows Vista?
• How do I obtain Vista compatible software?
• I want to upgrade my computer to Windows Vista.
• Who is my Technology Coordinator?