Windows Vista Editions

What’s the difference between the different versions of Vista?

Windows Vista is available in five editions:

Windows Vista Home Basic- designed for the basic home user, includes the Vista Basic interface and enables users to easily search for files. Vista also allows users to protect their computer from unauthorized users and unwanted programs, and set parental controls.

Windows Vista Home Premium- includes all the features of the Home Basic edition and also offers the Windows Aero interface. The price tag is about $60 more than Home Basic, but some users feel this is reasonable. Windows Aero provides tools to create DVDs and edit movies, record and watch television shows, connect to a game console, connect to Wi-Fi networks, and work with a tablet PC.

Windows Vista Ultimate- includes all the capabilities of the former two editions and provides additional features designed to make mobile computers more secure and easier to network. This version is probably only worth it if you’re upgrading 2 or 3 machines; if not, it would be an unnecessary expense.

Windows Vista Business- provides a secure operating environment to users in all sizes of business, and it includes the Windows Aero interface. Vista Business is basically the equivalent of XP Professional. If you are currently using XP Pro, this would be the upgrade for you.

Windows Vista Enterprise- is basically Vista Business with greater levels of data protection, and a multi-language interface.