How to Get Windows Vista

After the longest gap between operating system releases in Microsoft's history, the much ballyhooed Windows Vista was released in January 2007. Amidst the mystery, speculation and hype, the following steps should help you make a sensible acquisition of Vista while giving you the resources to learn more about the system in the process.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a phone
• an Internet connection

1. 

   Research, research, research. No product, especially when talking about computer software, is worth buying without some prerequisite knowledge of what it does, why and how. Familiarize yourself with Vista's bells and whistles, keeping in mind that the product is offered in six different pricing packages. In many cases, Windows XP offers the same functionality. Don't spring for Vista's hefty price tag if you don't actually need it. Find excellent software and computer-related news and reviews at cnet.com, zdnet.com and Wikipedia.

2. Shop around. Despite the pomp and circumstance surrounding its release, Vista is heavily stocked and available at most big box stores such as Office Max, Wal-Mart and Staples. But limit yourself to these options and find yourself paying more. Check local mom and pops for availability, where in addition to the software itself, you may come across special promotions, discounts and candid assistance from stock clerks uninhibited by the corporate line.

3. 

   Check online auction and classified sites. Remember, Vista has been available in beta testing form for months. Additionally, Microsoft released the system early to hardware and software manufacturers and volume license customers. The net sum of these actions is that Vista is available in abundance through third-party vendors on eBay and Craigslist, where lower prices are the norm.

4. Take the download route. For the absolute simplest way to get it, download Windows Vista directly from Microsoft. Also, a simple online search may offer some excellent opportunities to download Windows Vista add-ons, upgrades and accessories, including style icons and product and license information. Many of these downloads are free.

5. Visit Microsoft.com for news, updates and special online offers. Microsoft is offering customer technical support for the Vista system by phone and online. Call 866-425-0593 if you have questions or need help with the system.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your computer meets hardware requirements
• If you're in the market for a new computer, consider one with Vista already equipped
• Beware of Vista's new, more rigorous licensing restrictions
• Don't pay full price for software registered to someone else

[Blackbear]

on 3/1/2008 I have a vista and unfortunately it's uncompatible with my worthless Hewlett Packard All In One Printer that has a printer, copier, and fax. It's also not compatible with my Lexmark printer either. I like the vista but Hewlett Packard Co. put on their boxes that their printer was compatible with my vista. I called them and their employee basically admitted that they lied about it on their box. Is there ANY printer that is compatible with VISTA?

[torque63]

on 11/19/2007 I had a beta version and it basically locks you out of everything when the trial period expires, pay attention to the trial date and back up everything elsewhere so you access it at a later date. Beta is ok for testing to see if you like it or not. XP on a vista machine runs 10 times faster, something to consider.