Which Version of Vista?
Well let’s see… Which version of Vista should I buy? There’s Business, Home Basic, Home Premium, and Ultimate and they all have different features. So which one is right for you?
Home Basic? No. You don’t want that one. You’ll get more from Windows XP Pro than from Home Basic. Actually… I think you’ll get more from Windows XP Home or Media Center Edition. 200 greenbacks to buy it.
Home Premium? Probably okay. No advanced features though for backups or security. 240 smackers.
Business? Not unless you want a work only system (most multimedia functionality is crippled). It does have more robust networking, security, and backup options though. 300 dead presidents.
Ultimate? Yes. This is the one you want. It has all the stuff. It will only set you back the cost of a decent computer too. 400 Bucks!
Actually… if you can get the Enterprise version (not for direct sale), then you’ll get a level above Ultimate!
Now lets think about something… hmm… oh yeah! XP Pro with SP2 is a really rock solid version of Windows. Why are you going to upgrade? If you want XP and Dell or Gateway only offers Vista… just ask. They’ll give you XP if you ask. You can also look around on Craigslist or eBay for someone selling their copy of XP.
If you MUST have Vista… make sure you are only getting it as a preinstalled option on your new computer purchase. It’s the easiest way to be sure it will be fully compatible. Also remember the tech adage “Never buy the first version if you can help it”. Vista is causing many people headaches because there are still many problems with software and hardware compatibility. At least wait for Service Pack 1 to come out.
Or you can do what I’ll be doing… not getting Vista. Mac and Linux are looking better and better every day to more and more people. Dell even sells preinstalled Linux machines now.
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