Microsoft Vista is Microsoft’s latest addition to the Windows family. Vista has increased security, added features to help the user, and has an updated graphical user interface with many gadgets.

Built In Support
Vista has help and support built in, where users can search for help on complete specific tasks. Microsoft has also added search functions in several places, including the Start Menu and Control Panel, to allow users to access programs and settings quickly and easily.

Search
If you can not locate what you are looking for, try and use the Search function. Example: If you can not find Windows Explorer in the Start Menu, type “explorer” into the Search bar (Figure 1), or if you are trying to increase the screen resolution, you can go into Control Panel and enter “resolution” in the Search bar (Figure 2). The Search will display results that relate to what you have entered in the Search bar and you can select the right option from a narrowed down list of options. This is a live search that will begin as soon as you start typing.
 

Figure 1

Figure 2

Online Support
Microsoft has a support site for users looking for directions on completing specific tasks. It is broken down into a category view for easy navigation.
http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-US/default.mspx

There are also several third party sites for Vista support, for example:
http://www.vista4beginners.com
 

Getting Vista

Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor
Before you purchase Vista you should make sure your computer is ready for the edition of Windows Vista you want. The Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor will help you to determine if your current PC can run Windows Vista. You can also use the Upgrade Advisor to determine if your PC is ready for an upgrade to a more powerful edition of Windows Vista.

The Upgrade Advisor will scan your computer and create a report of all known system, device, and program compatibility issues, and recommend ways to resolve them. The Upgrade Advisor can also help you to choose the edition of Windows Vista that best fits the way you want to use your computer.

Click here to download, install, and run the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor.

For more information about Vista please visit the Microsoft Vista home page: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/default.mspx