Windows Vista

Updated: 01/31/2019 by Computer Hope
Windows Vista logo

Released to the public on January 30, 2007, Windows Vista is the successor to Windows XP in Microsoft's Windows line of operating systems. With the Vista iteration, Windows saw significant changes, both in aesthetic design and available features, with a focus on creating a more diverse and user-friendly experience. The image below shows the Vista desktop and Start menu, followed by new core features.

Microsoft Windows Vista

New Windows Vista features

  • Windows Aero, a completely new GUI (graphical user interface) and unlike any previous version of Windows.
  • Basic file backup and restore.
  • Improved DVD (digital versatile disc) support with the ability to create custom DVD movies.
  • A feature that allows users to import files from an older computer to a new one called Easy Transfer.
  • File encryption.
  • Instant search available through all Explorer windows.
  • Support for DirectX 10.
  • The ability to automatically detect and correct problems encountered on the computer.
  • Shadow Copy - a feature that let you recover deleted files.
  • Improved photo gallery and control of photographs.
  • Windows Sidebar allows users to add an almost endless list of different gadgets.
  • Improved parental controls.
  • Improved Windows Calendar, with the ability to set tasks and appointments.

Windows Vista system requirements

Windows Vista system requirements

800 MHz Intel-compatible
512 MB RAM
20 GB hard drive space
DVD drive 
DirectX 9.0 compatible video card
Standard sound card for sound capability
Windows 2000 or Windows XP to upgrade.

Windows Vista Premium system requirements

1 GHz Intel-compatible
1 GB RAM
40 GB hard drive space
DVD drive
DirectX 9.0 compatible video card
Standard sound card for sound capability
Windows 2000 or Windows XP to upgrade.

What Windows came before Windows Vista?

For the end user, Windows XP came before Windows Vista.

What version of Windows came after Windows Vista?

For the end user, Microsoft Windows 7 came after Windows Vista.

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