Microsoft will offer six versions of its upcoming operating system, Windows Vista. According to Microsoft, this classification is aimed at the usage goals of computer users, rather than being based on hardware criteria.
Microsoft unexpectedly “revealed” the versions of Windows Vista on its website, advertising features such as improved security, better information search capabilities, and a more user-friendly interface.
In this release of Windows Vista, there will be three versions targeted at end users, two versions for businesses, and a core version for other purposes. Unlike Windows XP, Vista does not have a dedicated version for 64-bit computing, multimedia-focused computers, or personal tablets.
Thus, in terms of the number of versions, Windows Vista is identical to XP but differs in target customers and the utilities provided. The release date for Windows Vista is set for after June of this year. Windows Vista is considered one of the most significant improvements in Microsoft’s Windows product line. It is known that Windows currently holds over 90% of the global desktop operating system market share.
Windows Vista Home Premium is the flagship product in the consumer line, featuring capabilities for capturing and viewing high-definition television programs, DVD recording, and other multimedia functions. At the same time, the tablet compatibility technology allows users to write notes directly on their computers.
However, Home Premium is merely a “mid-range” product for end users, positioned between the “high-end” Windows Vista Ultimate and the “basic” Windows Vista Home Basic. Vista Ultimate also includes many enterprise-oriented tools. Home Basic lacks some multimedia functions.
For businesses, Windows Vista Business is designed for small to medium-sized enterprises without an IT department. Windows Vista Enterprise targets large companies and multinational corporations, boasting impressive features such as compatibility with applications designed for older operating systems, enhanced security and encryption capabilities, and protection of information even when the computer is lost.
All versions for end users and businesses support both 32-bit and 64-bit computer systems. Microsoft will also release Windows Vista Home Basic and Business editions without Windows Media Player for customers in Europe, to comply with antitrust laws in the region.
TRẦN HUY
