Microsoft Windows Vista - full review. Windows Vista history and OS changes Redesigned network stack

operating system Windows Vista became available to corporate clients on November 30, 2006. For two months after that, it was used exclusively by this category. General access appeared only on January 30, 2007. There is a server type of OS called Windows Server 2008. Her review is presented in the corresponding section of our website and you can read it.

Windows Vista editions

Windows Vista Starter. The simplest option with the lowest cost. This publication is intended for family use and does not imply high level knowledge. The interface is simplified and contains only the minimum necessary functionality. There is a focus on developing countries, for which the most low cost, among all existing options.

Windows Vista Home Basic. Another simplified edition intended for widespread sale. It has somewhat limited functionality. Aero interfaces are not supported and EFS is not supported.

Windows Vista Home Premium. A more advanced edition, but it retains certain functional limitations. Available Windows Media Center, as well as the Aero interface and some other features. WITH full list can be found on the Microsoft developer website. There is support for working with touch devices. Restrictions apply to working with the EFS system - it is not provided.

Windows Vista Business. It is a standard publication for enterprises that can be used in any environment. Distinctive feature is business-oriented, which does not provide for the availability certain functions entertainment. Aero is available, Windows features Tablet PC, system backup and recovery tools, as well as a whole range of other important features. Although the developer suggests using the system for all businesses, it is more suitable for small businesses.

Windows Vista Enterprise. The publication is aimed at business use and, compared to the previous version, provides a larger list functionality. To install, you must first enter into an agreement with the developer. Additional factors are the presence of BitLocker, as well as rights to 4 virtual OSs. There is a special subsystem for programs developed on the basis of UNIX.

Windows Vista Ultimate. operating system of this type was developed specifically for ordinary users and small companies that need full functionality. In addition to the full range of capabilities, there is a fairly large list of multimedia.

Separately, we can highlight Vista Ultimate Limited Numbered Signature Edition, which was released with a circulation of 20,000 copies. Its only difference is the real signature of Microsoft CEO Bill Gates. The European version had to use some modifications. They are related to the peculiarities of antimonopoly legislation. The publications included the need to cut out Windows Media Player, as well as a number of other multimedia features.

History of Windows Vista

Initially, the OS did not have a name, but only a codename - Longhorn. After some time, development reached a point where initial statements could be made. On July 22, 2005, the creation of a new Vista OS was announced. After this, changes were made to the server part. It was called Windows Server 2008. As mentioned earlier, Windows Vista became available for the first time on November 8, 2006 for equipment manufacturers and only 2 months later it could be purchased by ordinary users.

The developer had some concerns about certain components. This includes running OpenGL as an add-on to Direct3D. This approach raised concerns about reduced productivity. Support for OpenGL from the operating system has not gone away and, as practice has shown, there have been no problems in this area. Has not been used file system WinFS. Attempts to use it were met with a decrease in performance, which was unacceptable.

Features of Windows Vista

The developers tried to bring as much new things into the system as possible and this should be noted. The number of improvements is quite large, but only the most important features will be listed below:

• Windows Aero interface. It is the graphic component that is considered one of key features this OS, since the developers spent a lot of time on it. The Windows Aero interface is the most popular, but far from the only one. Including the possibility of extensive user settings. Windows Vista was able to set trends in graphical interfaces, which were then transferred to other operating systems from this company. For example, this includes translucent windows, three-dimensionality of the desktop, an abundance of beautiful textures, and more.
• Sidebar. Provides the ability to customize the sidebar at your discretion. You can put not only programs there, but also other important things. For example, exchange rates, weather in your region, etc.
• Improved Windows Explorer. It is planned to preserve the structure Windows menu XP using another additional panel. It is possible to use some adjustments regarding the organization of the window itself. Numerous options can be used.
• Improved search engine. This operating system uses an index search engine. It allows you to start the process already in the process of entering the required letters. The closer the user is to finishing printing the request, the fewer options will be displayed. This is very convenient due to saving search time.
• ReadyBoost technology. It is especially important for those devices that do not have sufficient volumes RAM. You can use the capacity of a flash drive to fill the gap. Additionally, there are quite effective built-in diagnostic tools. They allow you to identify and take action to eliminate most problems.
• Energy saving and power functions. Compared with its predecessor - Windows XP, we can note more economical consumption of electricity. Several power options are available - economical, standard and performance.
• Hibernation mode. This option for the operation of the device means that there will be a transition to settings that allow maximum energy savings. At the same time, all applications and open documents are saved. The main advantage of the hibernation mode is the ability to recover in the shortest possible time.
• User Account Control. Allows you to manage user accounts. Among the possibilities, it is necessary to note a warning when performing certain actions. This includes installing new software or launching applications. It becomes possible to install malware in automatic mode. Only the user can give permission.
• To increase the level of protection against viruses or unauthorized access, use Windows Defender . It is quite efficient for embedded software.
• BitLocker drive encryption. There are two key functions. This includes encrypting the entire OS volume, as well as checking the integrity of boot components.
• Information recovery. During operation of the device, you may need to return to the state of the computer that was some time ago. This is precisely why system restore points are used. A similar function was present on its predecessor, XP, but here it is implemented with higher efficiency.
• Improved network features. As practice has shown, the network functions of Windows XP have begun to lag behind user requests in recent years. It is for this reason that this direction has been seriously improved. Improvements have affected almost all areas. The TCP/IP stack is capable of supporting a two-layer IP protocol architecture. IPv4 and IPv6 share a transport layer. A particularly important achievement was the implementation automatic settings. The creation of a unique architecture for Native Wi-Fi wireless networks deserves special attention.
• Conference room. This software is built-in and allows a group of users ranging from 2 to 10 people to work simultaneously. This feature has found its use when editing documents, as well as for performing demonstrations in PowerPoint. Equally important is the ability to distribute files in an accelerated mode.
• Windows CardSpace. A special technology that makes life easier for those who use a significant number of passwords. It allows you to use your information card when entering a site that supports CardSpace. It contains the necessary information in a securely encrypted form.

Criticism of Windows Vista

This operating system has some disadvantages and more attention should be paid to this point. Many complaints were made regarding the system requirements. The developers of Windows Vista took a bold step - they divided the system requirements into two groups. The first of them was called Vista Capable and provided the ability to run all key functions. This is where an important problem emerged. It consisted in the impossibility of using graphic innovations, since their requests went beyond the minimum system requirements.

The User Account Control system for users demonstrated uselessness during use. She protected from automatic start malware, but it was necessary to constantly press confirmation while working on the computer. This is particularly problematic, especially given the presence of more effective solutions from other developers. As a result, most users simply turned off this function. This approach had a negative impact on the overall security level of the OS and made it much more vulnerable. Another factor is that there are a huge number of ways to bypass UAC.

Windows Vista updates

To improve the reliability of the operating system, Microsoft regularly releases improvements. They allow you to increase productivity, improve functionality and eliminate various shortcomings. First service package contains all updates for the year since release, as well as expanded capabilities. There are many components that have made working with the OS easier and more efficient.

Much more important is Service Pack 2, which has been available for quite some time. It is necessary to list what exactly it includes:

• Windows Search 4;
• Possibility of supporting Bluetooth technology;
• 64x support bit processors type VIA;
• Recording discs in Blu-ray format;
• Wizard for making settings wireless network;
• exFAT file system, which has advanced synchronization capabilities;
• Support for smart cards with ICCD/CCID format;
• Improved security system for content in WMC;
• Increasing the efficiency of Wi-Fi immediately after it wakes from sleep mode;
• DirectX improvements are provided;
• The RSS located in the sidebar has been updated;
• Improved performance when playing HD video;
• The number of half-open connections is now infinite.

Windows Vista is a well-known operating system for personal computers and laptops from Microsoft, which replaced the popular Windows XP. The development process of some programs is strikingly reminiscent of a combination of a spy thriller and an intricate detective story. Probably the reason for this is the high competition in the digital software market and industrial espionage, which has become more popular than ever, forcing developers to become extremely careful.

Creating an operating system Windows Vista- a typical example of this: when development started, its only name was code word"Longhorn"

The greatest outpouring of indignation was caused by the stated system requirements operating systems. At the same time, the developers tried to take this into account and as a result released several editions that differed in the requirements for PC hardware.

Windows Vista editions:

• Starter: received widespread as an operating system for underdeveloped countries. Installed on demonstration stands and low-power computers for the purpose of a basic demonstration of its capabilities;
• Home Basic: limited version that supports up to 8 GB of RAM (for the 64 bit version) and no more than 4 GB for 32 bit bit systems. This version does not support Windows Aero, there are significant limitations when configuring local security policies;
• Home Premium: advanced home version with extended functionality ( backup, Windows Aero support, network connections from 10 devices via SMB protocol, support touch screens), but does not have the ability to join a domain, and also contains a number of other restrictions;
• Business: designed to be installed and used on small businesses(no function parental controls, limited multimedia and entertainment potential). There is support for working in a domain, a centralized security policy is enabled, etc.;
• Enterprise: extended Business version;.
• Ultimate: Recommended version of Windows Vista, which contains all available security policy features, excellent support graphics subsystem, wide multimedia capabilities, allows you to change the system interface from one language to another;
• Ultimate Upgrade Limited Numbered Signature Edition: Exclusive limited edition with Bill Gates details.

The less resource-demanding version was called Vista Capable, which featured limited functionality and had a basic set system services. At the same time, it did not allow the full potential of the computer’s graphics subsystem to be realized, because the requirements in this case would have increased by an order of magnitude.

At the same time, more demanding version Vist allowed you to experience all the innovations and advantages, but I didn’t like it either, because the system requirements at that time were quite high. Note that You can download Windows Vista in Russian for free from the official website of the developer (link at the bottom of the article).

It is noteworthy that this was not what the developers themselves feared. The creators had doubts about the correct operation of the video card in OpenGL and Direct3D mode, which could significantly reduce performance even on modern computers. The WinFS system was conceived, but was not implemented, since it reduced performance and had to be abandoned with regret - but abandoned.

But the positive thing was that users still noticed a seriously expanded Windows functionality Vista, and its tools became much more attractive, because there were quite a lot of innovations compared to Windows XP.

First of all, the hibernation mode attracted attention: it is in it that the device goes into a state of maximum energy saving and at the same time all applications are saved - all open documents and programs, and you can return to normal operating mode in a matter of seconds. This feature is extremely useful when working on a laptop. The new Windows Aero interface did not go unnoticed - the developers spent a lot of time on it, but the result more than justified the costs.

The breadth of user settings impressed even critics: the desktop became three-dimensional, windows became translucent, and textures became much more beautiful.

There was an opportunity to customize the right sidebar, where users could not only add the necessary programs (widgets), but also provide themselves with additional comfort by installing currency rates, weather news and other usual useful things on the sidebar.

We were also pleased with the improvements in the built-in search system: it used the principle of indexing, which significantly saved users’ precious time.
A new control system has appeared in Vista user accounts - User Account Control. Among its advantages is a warning before installing new programs or before launching certain applications. In principle, this allows safe mode install even malicious software - if the user gives his go-ahead, but it still allows you to protect the system from unwanted software.

At the same time, the protection itself, both from this malware and from viruses or unauthorized access, has grown quite significantly, and the reason for this is Windows Defender. What makes it different is its remarkably high efficiency for embedded software. Previously, such attention to improving security has not been observed, but it is better to act proactively than to clean up the consequences of a virus attack.

Changed for the better and approach to restoring the operating system to its normal operation: If you need to return to the previous state of your PC (for example, a week ago), this can be done using system restore points. This mechanism made it possible to return to the previously created backup copy operating system, in case it is damaged or completely fails. And although the version is considered outdated, user interest in its releases has not subsided to this day, so we offer to download Windows Vista for free with Russian language support.

Windows Vista was developed as a replacement for Windows XP. The operating system was released in two stages: at the end of 2006, a version for corporate clients was released, and two months later an edition for ordinary users became available. The new OS contains many changes, which will be discussed in the article.

Changes

Microsoft tried to make a new interface for Windows Vista, since the XP design was very outdated at that time. But at the same time, other features of the system were introduced. Let's take a closer look at them.

Windows Aero

As mentioned above, the improved graphics are the first noticeable improvement. Microsoft spent a lot of time on development Windows interface Aero. With its help you can significantly change the standard appearance of the system. It is possible to make changes and adjust the design to the user's preferences.

Aero set certain trends in program interfaces. It has been carried over to subsequent versions of Windows.

Brand features:

• Translucent windows.
• Smooth lines and transitions.
• 3D desktop.
• Pleasant textures and much more.

Recovery functions

System Restore was present in Win XP. Vista this function has been expanded and improved. With its help, it is possible to roll back the computer to the state in which it functioned before. Restore points are used for this.

The function will be useful, for example, when changes were made to the PC configuration, after which it began to work incorrectly. In this case, it is enough to roll back the system to its previous state (before installing the program, configuring the driver, and so on).

Hibernation

Hibernation is an advanced sleep mode for a computer. It allows you to bring the system to minimal consumption of network resources, but at the same time save all open data, programs and files. When the system is in hibernation mode, it can be easily woken up. Just press the power button on system unit, keyboard key, or mouse click.

ReadyBoost

This is the name of Microsoft's proprietary technology, which allows you to create a paging file on a removable flash drive. Its purpose is to fill the lack of RAM for the efficient functioning of the system. There are drive diagnostic functions. With their help, you will be able to resolve most problems using internal Windows tools.

Support period

The official release of Win Vista is November 30, 2006. Even at the very start, the OS had a large number of problems and unpleasant features for the end user. Many people didn't like how much more hard drive space the system took up and how much RAM it required compared to XP. There were problems with the network, program compatibility (some old drivers could not be installed), speed, and other aspects of the computer.

But Microsoft was constantly improving the OS, making useful changes and fixing old problems. All major updates are collected in Service Pack 2, dated May 25, 2009. All serious shortcomings have been eliminated, so Windows Vista is now suitable for comfortable use by the average user.

This version of Windows was replaced by “seven” (10/22/2009). She adopted the proprietary interface Aero and other developments that users liked. But at the same time it brought various innovations.

04/11/2017 - Microsoft has officially closed support for the operating system. Now the developer only occasionally releases security patches; no other corrections are made to its work.

You've probably heard stories about the different versions of Windows Vista and how difficult it is to choose. In truth, choose suitable version Vista is not that difficult...

The company has created a couple of versions for home and corporate users and one more - “Ultimate”, which combines the capabilities of other versions. Other versions of Windows are just specialized versions that regular users can simply ignore. For example, "Starter Edition" is the equivalent of a version of Windows XP with the same name. A version, it should be said, with a very limited set of functions, but also with an appropriate price. The main market for this version is developing countries. There are also versions "Home N" and "Business N", from which, according to the decision of the European Antitrust Commission, Windows Media Player 11 is excluded.

As a result, there are six versions of Vista, of which only four will be available to ordinary users. These versions have a significant difference in price, but not every user understands what causes this difference. On the Microsoft website there is a special section Windows Vista Versions, which is designed to help with the choice correct version, but still this is nothing more than a marketing ploy, not independent review versions. But today we will finally determine what lies behind each version of Vista, and which version is right for you.

Windows Vista versions

So there are six Windows versions Vista. In this article we will not consider the Starter Edition, because there is nothing to say: there is no information on prices, you will not find it on store shelves, you will not be able to order it in OEM supply. This version is intended for large institutions in developing countries and is available for purchase by developing country governments. Since this option is not suitable for users, we decided not to pay attention to it. This leaves us with five versions of Vista:

This table shows the main differences between the versions new Windows. There are also less significant differences, but this table illustrates the differences in the features that users typically use on a day-to-day basis. It is almost impossible to note all the existing differences, so let’s move on to a detailed examination of each version.

Windows Vista Home Basic and Premium - for home users

There are two versions of Vista, designed, so to speak, for home use. And they are called very logically - “Home Basic” and “Home Premium”. Both versions have a solid arsenal that may encourage you to use Vista. Both versions have a set standard features to ensure system security: a new version of Internet Explorer 7 with a super-protected mode of operation, a radically improved firewall and Windows Defender anti-spyware software. But don't confuse anti-spyware with anti-virus software—neither version of Vista comes with an anti-virus application. Both versions offer the Superfetch caching system, which loads files into RAM based on system trends to reduce hard drive access and speed up application loading times. There is also ReadyBoost, which, in conjunction with a fast USB drive, can also speed up the system.

Both versions provide support for processors with an unlimited number of cores. If Intel can release an 8-core processor in the next two years, there's nothing stopping you from using it. If you plan to use a computer with multiple physical processors rather than logical processors, any version of Vista except Home Basic will work. Home Basic is also limited to use maximum quantity 8GB of RAM in its 64-bit version, while the Premium version supports all 16GB. But in the next couple of years this is unlikely to become a determining factor when choosing a version of Vista. All 32-bit versions of Vista are limited to a maximum memory size of 4GB.

But if you look at the list of built-in applications, you can find differences between the two versions of Vista. Speech recognition is present in every version of Vista and it is quite a convenient thing, although many simply don’t get around to trying it. Photo Gallery and Media Player 11 are also present in both versions. Editing home videos and saving them to DVD is the prerogative of the Premium version, unless, of course, you turn your eyes to third-party products. Premium games, including Chess or the children's Purble Palace, are included in the Premium version.

The versions also differ in terms of convenience and interface. Both versions include a new search engine that returns results as you type. Information can also be backed up and restored. Windows Sideshow is a technology that allows Vista to send information to a remote device or additional screen - it is not supported in the Basic version. There is also no Tablet PC functionality. By the way, despite the fact that in both versions you can backup and restore information, in Vista Basic it is impossible to do scheduled backups. Remote Desktop feature has limited support incoming connection. Meeting Space is an application for organizing collaboration, but in the Basic version you can only view, but not take part in, a “virtual meeting”. To become a full member, you will need at least Vista Premium.

Many will be disappointed by the lack of a beautiful Aero interface and Windows Media Center functionality in Windows Vista Home Basic. Interface Aero Glass is a delightful interface with transparency effects, smooth animation, glare and blur. Without it, Windows windows seem too plain and the OS loses a lot. But the need for Windows Media Center is not so obvious - in fact, these are applications that allow you to listen to music, watch videos, record television programs, etc. This application is available exclusively in Premium and Ultimate versions.

Here's a reasonable question: how did the difference of $60 arise between the cost of the upgrade versions of Home Basic and Home Premium, if the difference between the full versions is only $40?

Windows Vista Business and Enterprise - for those who work

While many of you are choosing between the two versions Home and Ultimate, there are users who should turn their attention towards the business versions of the OS. But, unfortunately, migration is more painful for corporate users than for ordinary users: the company, as a rule, allocates money for a new computer only after a couple of years have passed after employees began to complain about outdated equipment.

Vista Business costs slightly more than Home Premium, and the cost per copy of Vista Enterprise is generally difficult to calculate. The Enterprise version is available only through volume licensing, which means you will never see this version on store shelves. Both versions have the standard set of security features and Aero UI. Instant Search, Firewall with Windows Defender, User Account Control, Aero UI, IE7 with Protected Mode, SuperFetch, Media Player 11 and Photo Gallery - all this is available in both versions.

Both versions are very similar to the Home Premium model, except for the lack of Media Center, Windows Movie Maker, and Windows DVD Maker. This, in fact, lies the difference between the home and business versions of the OS.
However, business versions have something to interest potential buyers. Like Home Premium, both versions support up to two physical CPUs and as many logical CPUs (aka cores) as desired. But the 64-bit versions of Business and Enterprise boast support for as much as 128GB of RAM. Please note that the operating systems are not intended for use on servers - new generation server operating systems will appear somewhat later and will support a larger number of processors and, possibly, more RAM.

One of the most interesting technologies implemented in the Business and Enterprise versions is Volume Shadow Copy. This technology first included in Windows XP, but was extremely limited in its capabilities. The version used in Vista is a copy of that from Windows Server 2003. The idea is that when a file changes, the system takes “snapshots” and stores the original copy of the file. Now when you click right click using the file and selecting Properties, you can restore the previous version of the file. This is written in detail on the Microsoft website. Volume Shadow Copy allows you to take snapshots of even currently open files, but it is especially useful if you accidentally saved a modified document under a new name or other similar errors. Scanning and faxing capabilities can also be useful in the office.

These versions of Vista include Rights Management Services, which were designed for office use. RMS is DRM (Digital Rights Management) for corporate email, documents and web pages located on the corporate network. The services will help you encrypt information and assign rights to who can decrypt what. Administrators can restrict certain features such as copy, delete, and print. Other technologies used are more related to client/server relationships, including IIS7 Web Server and offline file/folder support.
Another interesting technology present in the Enterprise version (not in Business) is the technology of encrypting everything hard drive, called BitLocker. Technology requires availability hardware module"Trusted Platform Module" or a special USB key and is designed for use in large companies where conventional password protection is not enough to ensure the security of information.

Windows Vista Ultimate and choosing the right version

The flagship of the Vista line, Windows Vista Ultimate, has at its disposal everything that other versions could boast of. All the multimedia features of Home Premium, such as Media Center and Windows Movie Maker, coupled with BitLocker, Volume Shadow Copy, Rights Management Services and a full-featured Meeting Space, give the user everything you can dream of. Ultimate has one thing that none of the other versions have. Its name is Windows Ultimate Extras.

What are "Ultimate Extras?" If you are a proud owner of Vista Ultimate, you will see Ultimate Extras in the applet Windows Update. Microsoft itself describes them as “applications, services and useful tips", developed exclusively for Vista Ultimate users. Unfortunately, in all previous beta releases of Vista and even in the RTM version, this online repository is empty. But today it is known what will be included in the .

So where does it stop? We sincerely recommend that you stop using the Home Basic version. It's a shame to lose the 3D-accelerated Aero UI and Media Center, even if you don't plan on purchasing a TV tuner. If you are considering Home option Basic Just because you're worried that your computer is too weak for Vista, you should stick with Windows XP.

For most home users, the Home Premium version will be the ideal option. It also has a new Aero interface and rich multimedia capabilities.

The Business and Enterprise versions are great for office work. It's something like Home Premium plus some useful office add-ons minus Media Center. If the Business version had Media Center, then this version could become an excellent alternative for experienced home users. On the other hand, there are too few new features for the home user to pay extra money for.

Ultimate is the best option, but its price is steep! Of course, all prices mentioned are indicative and they should be slightly lower. The boxed full version of Windows XP Home costs $199 or $99 for the upgrade version. Windows XP Professional costs $100 more. There are no such prices in the real world, so you can expect Vista to not cost as much as previously stated. $259 for upgrade and $400 for full version- it's too expensive. What it does for average home users doesn't explain the huge price difference over Home Premium. The only significant difference between Ultimate and the business version is the presence of Media Center.

How much does Vista Ultimate Extras affect the price? If Microsoft manages to popularize this idea with some useful applications and services, Ultimate will probably become wildly popular. If not, many will opt for Home Premium.

Buy Windows XP Today: Upgrade Coupons

Microsoft also offers coupons for a free upgrade from Windows XP to Windows Vista when you purchase Windows XP today. Well, let’s say it’s relatively free, because you need to pay the cost of shipping and packaging. However, this option will cost users much less than purchasing even the upgrade version.
If you buy a computer today with Windows XP installed, many computer manufacturers will be able to offer you a free upgrade. If you purchase your computer from a reseller, this is also not a problem. The main thing is to get serial number or ID. If you buy the boxed version of XP, it makes it even easier to get the Express Update.

However, there is a problem with OEM versions of Windows XP. These versions can be purchased from some stores, but these stores must be authorized to sell Windows. In such stores you and your a copy of Windows XP also gets a serial number.

Most of these resellers will happily sell you Windows XP with some hardware, such as a hard drive, motherboard, or CPU. This is where the problems begin. The Vista Upgrade Coupon states the following: "...the purpose of this coupon is to allow users who have purchased a full assembled computer with Windows XP installed, upgrade the system to Windows Vista special offer".

Pay attention to the phrase “a fully assembled computer with Windows XP installed.” That is, the offer does not apply to those who decide to buy the OEM version of Windows XP with a motherboard or other system component. So do not expect to receive a free upgrade when purchasing the OEM version Windows XP from some reseller.

Story

Early in development, the system was known by the code name Longhorn (named after the Longhorn Saloon near the Whistler ski resort in British Columbia). The name "Vista" was announced on July 22, 2005. A few months later, Microsoft also renamed Windows Longhorn Server to Windows Server 2008. On November 8, 2006 full version Windows Vista is available to hardware manufacturers. Public release for end users took place on January 30, 2007.

It's worth noting that many of the features planned for Windows Vista were dropped by Microsoft due to public outcry. For example, it was assumed that OpenGL would be implemented as an add-on to Direct3D. This would lead to a serious drop in OpenGL performance compared to Direct3D and lead to a fix OpenGL versions. The fears were not justified; OpenGL support remained in Windows Vista. The WinFS file system was also not included in Windows Vista - this time due to performance problems.

Review

In Windows Vista, the memory and input/output management subsystem has been updated. New functionality is also “Hybrid sleep mode” or “hibernation” mode, when used, the contents of RAM are additionally written to the HDD, but are not deleted from memory either. As a result, if the power supply does not stop, the computer restores its operation using information from RAM. If the computer's power is turned off, the operating system uses the copy of RAM stored on the HDD and loads information from it (analogous to sleep mode). The mode is implemented thanks to the so-called “hibernation files”, which occupy space on the hard drive equal to the amount of RAM installed on the computer. It is possible to custom delete these files and lose the hibernation function. At the same time, restoring these files without much difficulty is possible by calling special commands from command line.

Features of Windows Vista

New or Improved Features

Security improvements

• User Account Control (UAC)- a user account control system that requires explicit user permission when performing any action that requires administrative authority, regardless of the rights of the current user account. If the user is not an administrator, a prompt will be displayed in which you can select an administrative account and perform the operation with its rights by entering a password - this allows you to configure the system and install applications from a limited user account without explicitly using the runas mechanism and without having to switch to another account (which was required in XP, for example, in case of changing TCP/IP parameters). If the user is a member of the “Administrators” group, then he will need (with default settings) to confirm the use of rights by responding to the system prompt. UAC requests data in Secure mode Desktop, which protects against data interception and control of the input window by third-party programs (approximately the same mode was used when entering a domain with the requirement to press Ctrl-Alt-Del twice). UAC can be disabled for certain categories of accounts and reconfigured using a local (or group when used in a domain) security policy: for example, you can set a password to be required for all users (including administrators) to use administrative rights, prohibit these actions for users of limited accounts, and etc.
• Technologies that prevent the use of exploits- the Windows Vista operating system has some advantages that prevent the exploitation of detected vulnerabilities in software, but are fully realized only in 64-bit versions and with programs written taking into account these capabilities:
• Bitlocker disk encryption- Provides encryption capability system disk using the command line interface and other sections. In this case, a USB key or Trusted Platform Module is used to store encryption keys. To encrypt partitions, by default, the AES algorithm is used with a key length of 128 bits in CBC encryption mode. This feature is present in Vista Enterprise or Ultimate versions.
• EFS file encryption system. This system, which first appeared in Windows 2000, works in versions of Vista Business, Enterprise or Ultimate and provides the ability to “transparently” encrypt files at the file system level using AES (with a 256-bit key) or 3-DES algorithms. For each file, an encryption key is randomly generated, which, in turn, is encrypted with the public key to users (default 2048 bits). In Vista, using policies, it became possible to set different lengths of the user's public key (1024, 2048, 4096,...), save the key on smart cards (by default, the key is stored locally, protected by the user's password) and encrypt the page file, as well as require mandatory encryption custom folder with documents.
• Preventing virus infections from retrievable media. By default, Windows Vista disables autorun of programs from flash cards and USB devices. This keeps the computer from self-infecting itself with viruses, which can also be carried by flash cards. There are also policies that control access to external media(including USB), which also helps protect confidential data.
• Blocking direct writing to disk. Windows Vista prevents direct writing to a disk (\\.\PhysicalDriveX) if the disk has a mounted file system. For more details, see http://support.microsoft.com/kb/942448/
• Windows Defender. Windows Vista has a built-in program that helps combat spyware.
• Parental Controls. Windows Home editions include parental controls that help limit children's use of the computer. For example, you can configure a web filter to block unwanted sites, prohibit the use computer games, not suitable for their age. You can also use parental controls to block the use of a specific program, set a time limit, and view a report on the operation of parental controls. It is no secret that in Windows XP and earlier operating systems it was necessary to spend a lot of effort and time to insure against the consequences of careless use of the computer by children.
• Internet Explorer 9. Windows Vista has the option to download the Internet Explorer 9 browser.
• Data Execution Prevention (DEP) in Windows Vista has changed in that it is now enabled by default. And now this OS can include software implementation of protection, even if the processor does not support DEP. However, false positives may occur and some incompatible legacy and even some new programs may not start, although they can be added to the exception list or, as a last resort, DEP can be disabled using the command line utility “bcdedit”.

Service Packs and Support

Service Pack 1

Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (SP1) was released on February 4, 2008.

• According to Microsoft, after installing SP1, copying files to local drives will be 25% faster.
• Resolved an issue that caused error messages to appear when copying large files over a local network. Windows Vista with installed package The updates will also process high-resolution images more quickly.
• The service pack includes additions that improve the compatibility of the operating system with new video adapters, some types of monitors and printers.
• The update package also includes fixes that reduce the time it takes for your computer to wake up from sleep mode, improve the performance of Internet Explorer 7, and improve the power management scheme for notebook computers. Traditionally, the service pack includes all previously released updates and fixes.

The update package was initially available in five languages ​​- English, German, French, Spanish and Japanese. In mid-April 2008, Microsoft published versions of the service pack in other languages. Meanwhile, compatibility issues between SP1 and some device drivers remain unresolved. Before installing SP1, Windows Update checks your computer for problematic components, and if any are found, it postpones the installation.

Before installing Service Pack 1, you must first uninstall its test version.

Service Pack 2

Service Pack 2 is available for download from the Microsoft website. Service Pack 2 contains:

Unlike Service Pack for previous versions of Windows, SP2 cannot be installed without first installing SP1. This is done with the aim of unifying the SP for two platforms - Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008.

Microsoft was going to release Service Pack 3 (SP3) for Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 in 2010. But it soon became known that the release of the update package was cancelled.

A huge number of users around the world removed legal Windows Vista from laptops and installed Windows XP instead, often unlicensed. The reason here is only in the unsatisfactory performance of Vista on this equipment, because none previous version Windows has never caused such a reaction (that is, it cannot be explained by the conservatism of users), and Windows 7 does not cause it either.

After Windows release 7 (essentially an improved version of Windows Vista with performance optimizations and bug fixes), Windows Vista almost immediately died out (which did not apply to its server version). Since the standard practice of developers of desktop applications in our time is to test them on two operating systems - Windows XP and Windows 7. And then, as of May 2012, Windows XP is rapidly losing its possessions, giving way to Windows 7.

The manufacturer has extended the support period for Windows XP to an unprecedented period in history. computer equipment(with the exception of extremely expensive enterprise-scale servers) for a period of 13 years. In addition, MS failed to refuse to sell Windows XP before the release of Windows 7, although such a refusal is standard practice for this company (like any other).

See also

Notes

1. It"s the end of mainstream support for Windows Vista
2. Free support for Windows Vista and Office 2007 ends today
3. Microsoft Launches Windows Vista and the 2007 Office System to Consumers. Press Center. Microsoft New Zealand (30 January 2007). Archived from the original on August 23, 2011. Retrieved November 9, 2009.
4. Accessed July 2012, W3schools.
5. Windows Vista now has native OpenGL support.
6. Vista: now signed by Bill Gates - Tsifrovik.ru
7. Microsoft and PC makers are improving the Windows Vista upgrade experience for consumers. PressPass. Microsoft (May 18 ). Archived
8. Windows Vista Enterprise Hardware Planning Guidance - A guide to Windows Vista's planned hardware requirements. Microsoft. Archived from the original on August 23, 2011. Retrieved July 15, 2006.
9. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/facts.mspx archived page
10. Reducing Windows Vista boot time
11. Microsoft's hidden diagnostic tool unlocks Vista startup secrets
12. Microsoft Security Intelligence Report, Key Findings Summary. (Jan-June 2007.) The full report.
13. TheVista.ru:User Account Control
14. The Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 Developer Story: Windows Vista Application Development Requirements for User Account Control (UAC). The Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 Developer Story Series. Microsoft (April 2007). Archived from the original on August 23, 2011. Retrieved October 8, 2007.
15. User Account Control Overview. Technet. Archived from the original on August 23, 2011.
16. Application protection technologies in Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008
17. About the unique security features of 64-bit versions of Windows Vista
18. Address Space Layout Randomization in Windows Vista
19. Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption Frequently Asked Questions. Microsoft. Archived from the original on August 23, 2011. Retrieved September 5, 2007.
20. Niels Fergusson (August 2006). "AES-CBC + Elephant Diffuser: A Disk Encryption Algorithm for Windows Vista" (Microsoft). Retrieved 2008-02-22.
21. Protect your data with BitLocke drive encryption
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23. Updated EFS in Vista and Longhorn (oszone.net)
24. Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (SP1)
25. List of drivers incompatible with Windows Vista SP1
26. NVIDIA WORLD / News / today, July 1
27. Download details: Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five Language Standalone for x64-based systems (KB948465)
28. Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 (SP2) and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 (SP2) - All Languages ​​Standalone Version (KB948465)
29. Obtaining the latest Windows Vista service pack
30. Windows Vista: tests | THG.RU
31. Photographers have problems with Windows Vista | THG.RU
32. Symantec sees an Achilles" heel in Vista (English)
33. Microstft increasing security risk with Vista (English)
34. (English), slides 3-7
35. Microsoft: Kernel mede code signing walkthrough (English)
36. Driver Signature Enforcement Overrider 1.3b (English)
37. Microsoft blocks 64-bit driver (English)
38. Windows Vista Content Protection: 20 questions and answers (English)
39. Microsoft: Premium Content Copy Protection Architecture, slide 9
40. Patent Pending: Hardware Functionality Scanning
41. Microsoft: Premium Content Copy Protection Architecture, slide 13; this is called "resolution constriction".
42. Six months on, Vista users still gripping
43. Microsoft: "User Account Control (UAC) is annoying users"
44. Norton Labs