Vista Service Pack 1 is coming

Rob:

First Windows Vista SP1 (Service Pack 1)in 2007 Then Windows XP SP3 (Service Pack 3)in 2008.

OR is that Windows XP SP4 (Service Pack 4)?? Considering some people refered to Vista as "Windows XP Service Pack 3 with eye candy" (DON'T TAKE THAT JOKE SERIOUSLY!!)

SIBERIANAPC:

always VISTA SP1.
it is not going to be a joke any more there are so many missing drivers around but there cant be any more missing Service Packs, Microsoft gotta release this Service Pack....

NeOXG64:

lol I must be the only person in the world that LOVES VISTA NO ISSES'S WORKS WITH ALL THE PROGRAMS, its had issess @ the beginning of the year but has been 100% 4 the last 3months 4 me, i have no idea what you ppl are talking about

PC SPEC:
AMD AM2 6000+ x2 3.0Ghz 1000FSB 1mb x2
4gig DDR2 800mhz RAM
XFX 8800GTX
1.2T HDD

n M2N32 SLi Deluxe AMD AM2 mobo

this spec is pretty much been a standard for bout 6months, as this system only cost me about $2600 custom built, there are other device like a Creative XFi XG fita1ty, LT Z-5500, 22" benq LCD, G15 keyb n G5 mouse, the list goes on.

anyways the reason for showing my spec is not to show off theres people out there with a PC 5x better then my own.

The reason is to simply show that maby you r PC can no handle such a well thought through OS, I like XP SP2 but it after like 2months would really get sluggish... i try XP x64 SP1 n SP2 and again same isses :(

Go vista 1month after official release (build 6000) and the 64bit Ultimate version NO stuffing AROUND.

I do have friend with Vista how wonts to go back to XP only cuz of sound drivers 4 his creative audigy 4 as you don't get the console control for it atm.

If you have the XFi serious sounds card you can download the console n ALchemy program to help all avialble from Creative web site.

Video card drivers, I can not say anything on (AMD's) ATi serious cards as I am byost to NVIDIA grfx cards, but the drivers for NVIDIA hav improved in the last 6months with vista a lot, tho i can only play Crysis on medium :( @ 1680 x 1050 NO AA

Still thers no FPS LAG at all through the hole game DX10 FTW.

Now if any1 would like me to talk about how DX10 works n how people have been sayign they can see the differents on detail between DX9c n DX10 leave a replay on my web site http://www.gamerscaveonline.net go into the forums n sigh up and there is a section on DX10 for you 2 post n other areas as well.

Thank you for you time how ever reads all of this.

Douglas:

We got a new Vista-ized computer yesterday. It's only a basic unit (Core 2 Duo E4400, 1GB RAM, 160GB HDD, Vista Premium), and we like it very much! It runs smoothly, and we have had no problems with it at all (except the fact that the monitor wasn't set at the right resolution, but we fixed that in five minutes). The guy we bought it from installed everything for us (including all updates for Windows). We are very pleased with it.

It's not a gaming rig, but it is an excellent home PC.

So, if you want Vista, get it with a new computer from your local PC mob, not on a HP or whatever. It'll be loaded with c%$# that will bog it down.

McBanjo:

"....as end users test its limits thought their day-to-day activities."

Be careful, but I'll let it slip this time.

Common Errors

wow gold:

My friend recently installed Vista Home Premium on his system (2000+, 512MB RAM, Ti4200) and it runs fine. I'm installing it tonight (Ultimate, not Home Premium) on my 2500+/1GB RAM/6600GT. If I find my RAM being choked I'll buy another gig of DDR from eBay, they're only around $70-80. Of course I won't be able to run in dual channel unless I get a 2GB kit, but the performance (general - not games. The only games I play atm are CS and World of Warcraft :P) difference between single and dual won't be that big, will it?

Brad Tway:

These are AMD lines of processors, right?

Installing single channel RAM in a dual channel machine could affect sytem performance depending on what you are planning to do. If you are not careful, a game like WOW could cause your system to crash, so my advice is if you can stick with the dual channel RAM do so, so you don't have any potential snafus with your machine and Windos Vista. I don't know how unforgiving it is compared to XP, but hopefully it won's cause dozen of errors messages to pop up on your sceen. Yeah you can try going for the cheaper RAM if you don't mind a slight performace drop, but make sure that if doesn't work you can return it. And make sure your graphics are up to snuff also. As you probably realize Vista is a real hardware beast. Hopefully you don't have any problems but if you do you can probably blame Microsoft for making Vista unforgiving and unfriendly.

Anonymous:

"However, Microsoft is almost certainly aiming for a much earlier arrival, perhaps to overcome the reluctance among consumers and businesses alike to plunge headfirst into Vista."

Aka Gartner Recommendation Syndrome.

I would doubt the "aiming earlier" - i guess longhorn server is probably based on sp1, much like x64 XP was based on w2003sp1.

Anonymous:

Don't overlook that one line doozy... "meet or exceed predetermined deployment count goals for each milestone."

Test in your PRODUCTION environment, and deploy more copies at every *BETA* milestone! PAY US to have you beta test our software in your multi-million dollar production environment.

Mark:

Enough already!

GET A MAC!

Zapot8:

Macs dont play video games

krs99:

Even plays PC video games at native speeds if you're willing to load Windows XP or Vista software on the Mac.

Digital Creations:

As you just said. To play games on a mac you need to load a WINDOWS operating system. Macs CANT play games without windows. Therefore macs CANT play games.

APC administrator:

You mean a Mac running OS X can't play games. A Mac running Windows can play games as well as any other PC. 

Jordan:

"Enough already!

GET A MAC!" ?????????????????
having windows on a mac wouldnt make any diff for having vista with/without SP1 on a normaly computer and as other people say, mac's cant play all video games, just because the hardware is a mac wont completely make windows software run better

Axertion:

yea, macs have low compatibility....no video games, less programs..and everything is backwards to PC like they tried IE (confirm box has OK and Cancel buttons flipped). Macs are a good running computer, with nothing to run lol. (P.S., at least Microsoft doesn't make updates cost $$) :D

vix987:

yeah i agree with jordan. loading windows on a mac is simply useless along with performance degredation. just get a pc!!

Freddy:

Are you on crack?

Hi-Mac:

yes, the mac can play games

the_patriot07:

ummm solitaire?

Psykopath:

Neither does Vista. I tried to play a couple of old games on Vista. NO SUCCESS! It doesn't even tell me what the problem is. I do not understand... (*_*)

Try compatability:

NEither does xp. Xp can't play Final Fantasy VII unless you get an unoffical patch. But there is a way around it that microsoft made. It's compability mode *slaps forehead*. Ever thought if trying that?

macattack:

macs can play games like on your pc, but even better!!

derkaderka:

BS no MAC can play any games like my custom high end PC.

NobodyHome:

Not that simple

Getting a Mac is not always the answer, specially not for the casual user, as they cost more than such a user is willing to pay.

Getting Linux on the ther hand is an option that is much more viable. Linux distros have become a lot more friendly to the newbie, just look at Ubuntu, Fedora Core or openSUSE.

Most users need an email program (Evolution, KMail, Thunderbird), a web browser (Firefox, Konquerer) and a multi-protocal chat client (GAIM, Kopete). Some need wordprocessors and spreadsheets (OpenOffice 2.x is GREAT!!) and Internet connectivity (get a DSL, save the hassles of dialup).

All this is pretty straight forward in Linux. And if you absolutely _have_ to use Windows, run it as a virtual machine is Parallels or VMWare.

... and I'm writing this on a Mac ... ;).

derkaderka:

"... and I'm writing this on a Mac ... ;)."

and I bet your sitting inside starbucks as well.

FOREST:

MAC OS SUCKS
I'VE TURNED MORE MAC USERS TO WINDOWS THEN I'VE SEEN GO FROM WINDOWS TO MAC.
MAC OS REMINDS ME OF WINDOWS 3.11
HARD TO USE AND REALLY NOT WORTH THE TROUBLE TO LEARN TO USE. wHEN THE RESOURCES ARE MESSED UP TAKES HOURS TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THEN IS IS NEVER RIGHT AFTER THAT. MAC ONLY FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO SURF THE INTERNET AND LOOK COOL ON THE DESK TOP. ALL GLITTER AND NO GO. MAC PEOPLE REMIND ME OF BARBI AND KEN DOLLS AIRHEADS, DRUGGIES FROM THE 60'S WITH THERE FANCY SCHOOL BUSES, VW VAN'S. SO TOOT YOUR HORN SOMEWHERE ELSE.

CaptainReality:

OH MY GOD I APPEAR TO HAVE LEFT MY CAPS LOCK KEY ON AND I DON'T KNOW HOW TO USE PUNCTUATION CONSISTENTLY IS IT BECAUSE I'M DUMB AS A SACK OF HAMMERS, INSECURE, OR BOTH. GOD KNOWS, BUT I KNOW THAT MACS SMELL LIKE FRENCH CHEESE AND THAT MAC ARE ONLY FOR PEOPLE WHO LOOK COOL IN THEIR MONEY SPACES.

Yes, your post made that much sense.

Enjoy your stay in the idiot tree!

SH:

McBanjo = grammar nazi.

raindog:

Nice try by Microsoft to circumvent the long held industry practice of waiting till a service pack or two is released before giving a product consideration. I don't think too many are going to fall for a a service pack released before most vendors have shelf stock. If anything a service pack concurrent with a product release will inspire buyer caution by anyone dependent on their systems.

seaman:

If I will ever see MAC supporting millions of devices and software like Windows,I'll take my hat off,and I'll agree that is a fine operating system.
Let Linux handle the server-networking jobs,keep MAC for a handfull of people which don't have much of an ideea what a computer can do,and have Windows for all the rest.
So,lets hope Vista SP1 will make things even better than they are.

Bash:

Woah, back up. Linux on the server fields? Linux has came far beyond that my friend. Its now a viable alternative for a desktop OS too.

Everything works differently for everyone who tries it. Just remember that.

In my case, I found that Linux did things a tad better on this machine.

Gene Cavanaugh:

I run the latest version of Ubuntu on a custom machine. Pretty plain vanilla machine, though it does what I want.
My daughter has Vista and a "mongo" machine. I believe, with her machine, I would REALLY blow her away with Linux.
What I have noticed is:
1. My system boots FAR faster than hers.
2. My system is FAR more stable and error-free than hers.
3. I get weekly/monthly upgrades which I can install or not as I choose, and they take very little time to install (I always install).
4. I can run programs Windows can't. I also have Win2000Pro as an application, if I want to use it. I haven't found much to use it for; the Linux stuff such as OpenOffice and GIMP is MUCH better.
5. Down side (for me, UPSIDE!!!) I need to know a little bit about software; Linux treats me as a partner, not an idiot who barely knows how to turn the machine on. That way, I can do things that a Windows user can only wish they could do.

anti-spam:

oh really please do tell what can you do that the rest of us cant ?

Anony:

Yes, You can do those things in windows (except from gaming - but gaming isn't for everybody).

The point is: why spend hundreds of dollars for windows if you can get those things done in a free OS? Unless you are using a pirated version of windows.

Mjhieu:

Oh the rest of everything i can do with Microsoft is what you only could wish and jealous....Go with linus chicken guys....

AP:

OKay,
If you stop and take a look at the limited number of drivers available from the OEM's then this would make sense ...

Longhorn Server, (Server 2007), is due to enter public beta within the next couple of weeks, which would make sense because it should be out by mid-year ...

This would mean that Microsoft will need to release a technical update for Vista, in order to allow additional functionalities between the two OS's ...

Then finally the OEM's & AV organisations who have been sitting on their haunches for sometime now & not overtly investing the time and development into the drivers for Vista, will be releasing new drivers & blaming the lack of development time upon Microsoft (de ja vue XP !)

So that fact that Microsoft are going to be releasing a "SP1 for Vista" is of no supprise. Whilst releasing a driver database update, and interoperability update following the release of S2k7 it makes rational sense to ensure that all systems are also issued with a consolidated patch.

Sorry, but where is the problem ?

Maybe we should be shouting at the OEM's and not Microsoft, because if they had worked with MS upon Vista development instead of releasing modified XP drivers then the SP may have been out within 18 months and not the first year ...

A

Kad Mann:

> Sorry, but where is the problem ?

"the still not-yet-released Vista has 'high impact issues'"

Perhaps you missed that bit.

avjtg:

For all you people recommending Mac and Linux: get a freaking clue! The PC/Windows combo is the most successful because the average user doesn't give a crap that Linux is "safer". They don't care that Mac "looks better". They just want a cheap computer that they can turn on and that will install the latest game or tax package that they just picked up at the local CompUSA. Mac can't deliver that: it's too expensive. Linux can't deliver that: show me a single non-technical user that knows where to being looking for the open office software; and good luck finding a popular game that'll run on it. (And no, running XP in a VM doesn't count: you or I might be able to do that, but just try explaining VMs to the average person and watch their eyes glaze over.)

The average computer user doesn't care about any of these thing, and the constant sniping and "get a Mac" crap that gets posted *every* *single* *time* Microsoft is mentioned just makes you look like a bunch of immature idiots.

Austin Lazanowski:

Holy crap. Thank you. Thanks for someone actually having a brain in these forums. I hate this mac vs. linux vs. windows war. Everyone is going to like what they like and maybe 1% will actually change if ever. I want to read quality, not this banter. So thank you for pointing it out the way you did.

dude:

Stuff Microsoft, get Linux or a Mac

Vinu:

Stuff Microsoft, get pirated vista

Andy:

Unless of course you're poor, but then i just feel sorry for you. No excuse for pirating otherwise.

Roger:

Students are the ones that usually pirate. And some are not born into richness like some peoples.

raindog:

This is rich, whilst everyone has had a gutful of the fanboy "my OS is better than yours", your post takes exactly the same tact and prattles on about how your chosen OS can supposedly do something the others supposedly cannot do.
If you want to brand fan-boys from one team as "immature idiots"? Then grow up and stop your sniping which encourages their sniping add infinitum, and which entitles you to wear the same label.
These are all opinions and the sooner posters realise that their "In My Opinion" is just that, and not some crusade of honour, the sooner we have a chance for a worthwhile read.
But then if everybody did this it wouldn't
offer much scope for all the unheard bloggers like Angus to use APC as a vehicle to flog their nondescript and otherwise unread web links.

Anti-everything:

I think that the average "Joe User/Jane User" or "best Buy ripped-off my grandma" types of users don't really have a choice in that they get Windows, Windows, or some other bu115hit kind of Windows. Windows = No Choice. IOW you take it however THEY WANT TO GIVE IT TO YOU. If you appreciate that then I am sure you spend most of the day on your knees for a living. LOL Whatever your choice is if all of your choices are made for you, then you really didn't make one did you, if all of the PC's are more or less made of the same components from the same component manufacturers, and the same assemblers in China, then when you buy a buy an Intel or AMD, or a Gateway or a Dell (laptop especially) are you really making a choice for something better or worse? Just remember consumers at any level at some point are devoid of choice even businesses buying things. Windows and the market it represents, and even Apple, is about the fact that there is no choice, it is simply what company A(pple), M(icrosoft), or W(homever) GIVES you. Now be a good consumer and help Microsoft slug away from its responsibility to the market for making a good and competitive product and just buy Vista because it is 'neatly cool'.

And as far as a popular game that runs on Linux there have been quite a few Quake 4, Doom 3 I think, Railroad Tycoon, among others. But I am sure you probably didn't mean that Golden Tee-like game and games like that which connect to the Internet for tracking scores that way or something without having to use anti-virus. "Sorry Sir your game is suspended while I do a virus definition check and scan my files for worms and what not. No, you wouldn't mean one of the current most popular bar games out there generating revenue for the developer(s) and end points of revenue every day.

But I went this far so I might as well go further, can Windows replace your BIOS? Can it do that and then run your virtualized servers? And then also be your virtualized servers and be free without license restriction? Or can it pump out thousands of desktops without significantly denting your budget? How many licenses do yo need for your DHCP server? DNS? other trivial networking task? How about we put Windows in your ATM, no not ass-to-mouth the way Microsoft feeds you, but where your money info is strictly checked. How about that point-of-sale terminal running without protection like a horny 13 year-old at a college sorority with a pocket full of ecstasy when you use your credit card next? Maybe the owner should have taken more care to secure it, or the application vendor, or you to demand to know before you swiped your card to find out how secure it is by default since it is running Windows. Maybe the consumer should just accept it as reality that the mono culture the same consumer produces is its own responsibility because they idolized the notion of success breeding success when in reality it is slowly leading to failure of the system as a whole. Microsoft cannot displace the Internet, Linux, MySQL, FOSS in general and everything else. Its greatest strength is Windows and it is its greatest weakness because the whole chain depends on Windows and now that Windows is at critical mass and the bot nets are really on the rise you can see the darkness on the edge. It is a beautiful sunset coming, it sure ain't no Vista of no view.

I have missed a lot of points and logic but its late and an anonymous post so take it however it is or leave it.

Todd:

Dude, settle down alright, the bloke was just tryin to say the average user just wants things to work, the way they have worked, which is why Windows is Windows, nothing much has changed (location wise, think about it) and many programs still run that were made for Win 95, dont go blame Microsoft for not supporting older software, look at what everyones precious MAC did about 5 yrs ago changing to OSX killed printers off, but it was needed so the OS could improve and change, which is what Microsoft was trying to do (I think) with Vista, sure it may only be around for 2 years before be superseded, but it looks like it will be the bridge from XP to Vienna which from reports will be completely different (different FS, layout, look, feel etc). Now to Linux, linux is a good concept, but who do you know that wishes to sort through forum after forum after news group looking for drivers for their specific make of network card, or what has already been said, use Open Office, its a good BASIC word processor, sure it can do other stuff, but so can Word, but because its free, its automatically better, I've used it and personally dont like it (MY opinion) I dont care if the next bloke love open office, wouldnt never use anything else, good for him, but back to my original point, Windows is as popular as it is because at the point there were no viable alternatives, and people got accustomed to it, so instead of blaming Microsoft for trying to change and improve itself, blame yourself and the other people flaming Vista here, for not for one learning it, two, not learning anything else (Microsoft shouldnt have to hold your hand in learning Mac or Linux) and just use it, I dont mind it, but then again Im still using FreeBSD at the moment and I suggest if you HATE vista so much, stop talkin about it and use the time it takes to read these posts to learn to use it properly or learn to use an alternative OS. Simple. You hate because you dont understand! Ha

Now that probably made no sense, but come on!! Who cares is it really gunna kill you to re-learn something? or to learn something completely new? Windows, as bloated and error prone as it is, is a decent OS, it supports countless devices, software etc, so errors are expected. Mac OSX again decent, but only because it supports a very specific set of hardware (if you build your OS to work with one peice of hardware, it will be more reliable), and Linux, good idea, but I dont care what people say, my grandma could not use Ubuntu not yet anyways

lscapa:

So everyone flies of the handle about Vista new. Whats new... MS is wanting testers to test tested software before being tested (RTM). Did that make since? What is the big deal anyway with MAC vs. PC vs. Linux vs. Vista vs. vs. vs., it all is still based on a simple electron flowing around causing havoc. Oh for you MAC users don't worry you cant get confused with one mouse button. All OS's or software packages are still limited by the 8-bit everything in a computer... Notice I siad computer and NOT PC. Though it is wierd the MAC users want to trust a CPU made for a calculator, and those Linux and UNIX guys out there, why are you still having to support code from the 1970's? By the way I support all of these technologies and softwares and still haven't reaaly seen anything in 40+ years that would ake me lean toward one vendor for all situations. The real question here is, Would you not rather have MS test these "new" SP's or just say "hey here you go, hope it works for you!!!". SO have fun tearing apart your disliked hardware and software. Just remeber all of it is as simple as 1, 0.

Mark:

i actually really like vista and use it in my career as a freelance tech writer and consultant. however, in my experience, ubuntu linux--while a little clunky looking--actually has much better supprt for peripherals than Vista does. for example, i recently bought a Vista-compatible monitor, external hard drive, printer, and wireless desktop. the monitor works, but i have to reset my configuration every time i reboot or come out of sleep. i can use the hard drive, but only after having it search for drivers every time i reboot (it never actually finds them). i can't use the printer or the Microsoft wireless desktop at all. on ubuntu, i simply booted up and every one of those products worked. the only thing i had to do was add the printer from a list and choose it as the default. 3+ hours on Vista and only partial positive results vs full functionality on ubuntu in under 5 minutes. makes you think...and yes, i know how to search for and install drivers. if they're out there, they're tough to find.

biggsdarwin:

I rarely ever reply to posts but, I have to say that I so truly appreciated your comment! Well-written, to the point and frankly, right on target. Maybe I'm a little less savvy than many here, but I use a Mac for my design work and my wife uses Windows for here daily tasks. I am not about to start sprouting off about how much better a Mac is than Windows; they are tools and as such, they used accordingly.

I SUCCESSFULLY used Windows for years and years before making the switch (and then only for Final Cut and some of the other integrated software offerings that came with the Mac). But to say that Windows is a sub-par machine, or that Macs are the "true" machines, or that Linux or any other system/OS/hardware config is the ONLY way to go, well, is not only arrogant, but misguided as well.

Stop seeing your computers as status symbols and see them for what they are; tools.

Again, avjtg, excellent post!

Radioboy:

that is all...

GET A MAC = BE HAPPY

Reply:

Have money and know nothing of computers? ... get a MAC
Have money and know nothing of computers and want to waste? ... get Windows.

Want freedom and want to fly? ... install LINUX!

john:

"Want freedom and want to fly? ... install LINUX!"

Now there is a minefield. My favorite distro is Linspire. Ezy to use. It's pretty much Linux for dummies.

Ed:

As a Sci-Fi gamer, "mother ship" is never 2 words, its always mothership. Just wanted to point that out xD

George Clinton:

"Sci-Fi gamer"? Any funk music listener would know that!!

PALIMENTARY FUNKADELIC MOTHERSHIP CONNECTION, OVER AND OUT!!

Anonymous1:

mac was the pretty-d up unix system with GUI's for those to dumb to learn commands
i mean look at a mac...jeez
then theres price

where as PC, everything supports PC, it has the greater market share

i say if its gaming, then get a gaming machine.. Q6600, 2GB DDRII 1033Mhz, 1x 74GB SCSI, 2x 250gb SATAII, 2x 7950GT's

then install vista and wish you had a mac, because the software compat was about the same

SP1 seems like a scam, who wants powershell, or more security... FFS get rid of UAC..its stupid, and give me full admin rights im the mofo admin
gimme more options to turn things off, actually have a fully functional administrator with rights to everything, fix your resource allocation...vista runs like a dog just turning on, improve the software compatability, im sick off selling a computer to an idiot who still uses windows 98, then they come back and want their MYOB 2000 to fuggin install.....jeez MS YOU OWE ME

666:

Hey, I know, let's have another opinion based argument. That's sure to provide some interesting and informative reading.

Basically who gives a crap what OS/hardware combo you use. Unless you built it from scratch yourself you have shelled out cash to a large company that is saying "Thank-you very much!"

Let's take a look at two of these LARGE COMPANIES and see who really deserves our hard earned in the first place.

Microsoft and Bill Gates - Has stated quite clearly that he aims to give away all of his fortune to charity before he dies and has started already - The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. Good environmental policies and sustainable work practices. Setup factories in Mexico that actually "Shock! Horror!" benefit the local communities.

Apple and Steve Jobs. Has stated quite clearly stated that he is rich and greedy he openly steals ideas and claims them as his own. Apple have a shocking environmental record Green My Apple. They are only this month making products with even basic RoHS compliance, their products are made under appalling conditions in Chinese sweat shops.

This is a quick 10 second comparison but more digging will soon reveal where you "should" be sending your cash.

Will:

Nothing is good about a mac. if everyone had a mac all the computers will look the same with a stupid apple on it. its gay and thats why mac users put windows on because they know its a much better os. VISTA RULES!!!

James:

I'm writing this comment under Vista Ultimate, and even I think your comment was unnecesary and pointless. Grow up before you make immature comments...

Dragox2007:

WTF????? IM runing Vista Ultimate.
2.8ghz pentium d dual 820
2gb ddrII 800mhz ram
geforce 8800gts
160gb 12krpm SataII

If you know how to set Vista up properly I can run FAST with cheap parts. and btw. THE ONLY GAME THAT MAC HAS GOT THAT IS GOOD IS WORLD OF WARCRAFT. and trust me, EVEN THAT RUNS LIKE A TURTLE! Stick to vista if u have a DX10 CARD (OR if u wanna play halo 2 or any other gaes for windows titles). If u still got Dx9 then you either stick with XP Or you get vista and see if ur card is powerfull enuf. DO NOT TRY TO USE VISTA ULTIMATE WITH AN AGP. MY FREIND TRYED IT WITH A 6200. HIS PC RAN LIKE SHIT AND HE HAS VIRTUALY THE SAME SPEC AS ME CEPT HE HAS A 6200 INSTEAD OF AN 8800.

GET VISTA.

IT PWNS.

LOOK FOR GM DRAGOX2007 ON GAMES FOR WINDOWS/ XBOX LIVE

Shifter:

To Dragox2007;

I run Windows Vista Home Premuim at home.

AMD Athlon64 X2 5600+
2GB DDRII RAM
1GB GeForce 8500GT

Mine runs just fine. I'm considering moving to 64-bit, too.

To the rest:

I used to use Mac's at school. I personally don't like them.

I have used openSuSE 10.2, and Ubuntu 7.04. I like them.

I also have used all flavours of Windows since 95-OSR2. They are also good.


If you don't like what everyone else uses, then move your cursor to a specific corner of the screen, and hit the red button, the "X", or whatever else that button might be.

Regards, Shifter.

LD50:

Ah, the fun and opinionated troll fights. I guess I'll throw in my $2.50. I'm running Windows XP SP2. It crashes sometimes, sure, but thats to be expected. They havn't written something crash-resistant since DOS. I heard they bought DOS. -shrug- I don't use Macs because I'm a power user. If I was photochopping, I might get a Mac, but as far as actual usefulness goes, it doesnt do what I need it to do. I don't use linux because I don't have time for learning a new OS, I need to relearn how to program, and for some odd reason, nomatter which Linux pre-written system I try to install, it freezes during the install.

I'd just like an operating system thats customizeable completely, and runs everything without crashing, and doesnt rape me on resource usage.

Oh, and I'm a student, and I own my own copy of XP, that I bought. I'll buy Vista when it gets restocked at school, because Microsoft gives good deals to schools. 29$ for Ultimate. Yum.

Svey:

You people who bash Linux/Unix, Windows, and Mac OS X sicken me. No one OS is better than the other in all areas. Sure, Windows is usually said to be the "Idiot computer," and Mac OS X is marketed as being "Idiot Proof," and Linux/Unix is usually for those how are "More Advanced Users," but you are missing the main point to the different OS's, having the ability to chose what OS you get based on what you are using the computer for.

Linux/Unix is usually used by those who don't play many games and really only need a basic computer, they don't want anything shiny on their computer. They just want a computer that is usable. Sure, it may seem like it is more advanced, its not. Moving from one OS to another seems like a hard thing to do, once again, it's not. Once you learn the coding, you'll never forget it and within a week or so, you'll have it down packed.

Windows on the other hand is the mass used OS. You can't call Windows affordable because, compared to Linux/Unix OS's, it's not. Windows is for those who like to play games, do intermediate video/photo/audio editing, business related processing (i.e writing reports, taxes, spreadsheets, ect.)

Mac OS X isn't as widely used as Windows, but it is better in some aspects. Mac OS X is the type of operating system that is used more for advanced video/photo/audio editing because of the programs that are available on Macs. Yes, you can argue that Photoshop/Paintshop Pro is on the same level as the iLife '08 programs, but remember, Photoshop/Paintshop Pro runs you a hefty $300 or so, whereas iLife '08 runs about $80. Thats why a mac costs more compared to a PC. Not only are the computers self-contained, but between the software that is pre-installed on them and the hardware, which is usually better than what you can get in an affordable PC (not talking about custom built), Apple has to make up for the higher-end components and higher-end software.

No one of these OS's are better at everything than the other. I myself am a Windows person, even though I seemed to have praised Apple more than Microsoft. But, I am also an apple employee. Learning to use a Mac when you are used to Windows is not like going on a crusade. Sure, it's set-up differently, but thats the whole reason there are different OS's. Variety. The only reason I use Windows and not a Mac, is that I play a lot of computer games, I need the OS compatibility and support to play those games, therefore, I need Windows. Yes, you can play games on a straight Mac without bootcamp (windows on a mac), there just isn't the same amount of game titles in the pool that there are with a windows machine. I have dabbled in Linux/Unix and it's not that I don't like the system, I'm just to lazy to remember all of the code and whatnot.

I'm sorry that this is so long, started out just wanting to make a simple point and kinda got into it.

nylesath:

Enough with the fracking war already. Svey makes a lot of good points. You cannot claim that any OS is better in all areas over another. Each has its own pros and cons, and to automatically squawk out a foolish comment like "Get a Mac, be happy" at every discussion involving issues with Windows just shows serious immaturity. Mac is not the answer to every OS problem. Nor is Windows or even Linux. And naturally only a Mac user would think that that OS solves every problem. This goes for Windows and Linux as well, though. Grow up, people.
Windows (all versions)
Pros: Pretty well standardized to the point where the average user can do the most common functions on it without having a college degree, such as office applications, gaming and internet surfing.
Cons: Microsoft has stability issues. They also have issues with driver interfacing and security flaws that are exploited regularly. They require constant maintenance to discover and patch the problems.

Mac (All versions)
pros: They have the leading edge on creating multimedia. Designing art and mixing music should be done on a Mac. They can handle the intense resource usage.
cons: The bloody things are so proprietary that you have to use only Apple software to interface with any Apple product. Mac is not designed for the average user. It's designed for people who specialize in certain applications. There's nothing wrong with this except that the average user must spend a bit more time learning to adapt to its unique style.

Linux:
Pros: Possibly the most stable and secure. This OS is less subject to attacks because it takes a bit more knowledge to learn how to program in Linux, so by the time a user gets around to deciding they want to hack Linux, someone else will already have designed a patch that would likely keep them from causing harm. Linux is ideal for more technically minded people who don't need a pretty operating system.
Cons: It does take time to learn Linux and the average user is not likely to have the patience to learn programming when all they have to do is point and click.

In this comment, average user should be generally considered to be users with little to no IT training. This definition is not meant to insinuate the lack of intelligence on the part of anyone. But some of these users are right. The gaming industry is now the driving force behind technology, and not all OS versions are ideal for gaming, but they make up for it by leading the industry in the applications they do run.

p****d of end user:

I bought the OEM version of Vista Ultimate for this PC set up (which I bought just three months ago)

1 Coolermaster RC Media 281 case (the desktop/Tower case)

ASUS Striker Extreme (Supposed to be the best mobo out at time - gnrrr)

2Gb of Crucial Ballistix 800MHz DDR2 RAM

Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 - 2.4GHz

2 x Sparkle Calibre 7950GT Graphics cards in Sli mode for 1Gb of Graphics.

1 250Gb Sata 2 HDD and 1 320Gb Sata 2 HDD.

I used the onboard soundcard, as it is good enough for my speaker set up.

Vista rates this computer set up with everything hitting between 5.1 and 5.9 on its PC capability tester.

Yet it was slow to boot, slow to run anything, slow to get multiple programs working together etc etc etc.

Microsoft products wouldn't work on it - their downloads won't download, or when they DO, they still don't work.

The language file downloads are stupid - they are over 50Mb EACH! They wouldn't even download on my PC, and I have 8Mb broadband.

All in all Vista was nothing like XP - yes XP is bad, but I ended up buying an OEM XP SP2 and putting that back on instead.

For example - my 2 Sparkle Calibre Graphics cards are supposed to be kick ass good - they should be when they are nearly £200 each.

Lost Planet on Vista managed a poor 5 to 15 fps, but in XP this was 19 to 38 fps - which still isn't brilliant but the game is VERY high on the graphics side.

I hate Vista, and until they get their drivers, programs and downloads working properly, then I will not use it.

The Nvidia drivers that run the Asus board are also rubbish - their Vista ones wouldn't install because, according to Nvidia, I didn't have Vista 32 bit OS on my PC.

Yes, Vista looks the Bees knees, but it is blooming aweful as an OS - when will we be rid of this turbulent company. They have had so many attempts, and they fail us time and time again - BOOOOO to Microsoft. Even the old Amiga Workbench is better than Vista - at least things ran smoothly and didn't crash constantly.

Bing:

guys go Sinclar zx spectrum, go Comodore, go Atari :) dont waste time ;)

Kurov_DK:

Men i'm sick tired of seeing dudes in here saying lots of crap about High-end machines with vista and a crapy performance! Look at me, P4(Presscott, way much better than a fireplace!) 3.0Mhz + 1.75 GB DDR 400 + 250GB SATA SAMSUNG + Seagate Barracuda IDE 40 GB + Radeon X1600 Pro 512 MB AGP, this is not an high end desktop and i am using vista without problems! The problem is not the OS the problem is the People! If you don't make so many no-normal stuff tou your OS it wont crash! Ever any of you guys saw a brand new windows instalation without anything but the SO crashing? I don't think so! Yes as many dudes in here said Windows is for games, MAC for video/photo/audio edditing, and linux for those that like to have their own OS with total control. I've used all kinds of OS (i'm a computers technician) And i just cant stop working with windows, it has all the good things that we see in other OS (less linux codes and his a complete power of change), if i want to play a good game i just play, if i want to change and edit some videos or photos i can do it, expensively, but i can!

This maybe hard to understand cause i am from Portugal the country where Windows Vista ultimate costs 160% of the minumum salary! Where having a high end desktop is not like buying chewing gums, where parents can't give technology to their sons because it is to expensive, and where 50+% of the population have never been more than 4 years at school, so you people don't criticise just make it better! Oh and i am one of those that even working an entire month can't buy vista ultimate without making my sons starve! Sorry about those erros! keep it cool!

nathan:

LOL, omg just remember people that if you want DX10 you need vista. What is the point of putting windows on a mac? if i buy a mac i will buy it for OS X. as far as open office you dont need linyx, you can get that for windows also. anyway weather you like it or not microsoft and windows are here to stay.

Jason C. Kubin:

Nathan, you CAN have DX10 on XP. In fact, if I recall correctly, I recently installed it on M.E.. I did notice that the DX10 has the 9.0's Eula in the Installer which leads me to believe that only a small percentage of 10 is actually authentic to it's own version.

As you may have recalled, 9.0 installed on 98+. Hope that clears up the misunderstanding. And I agree with you completely on the Mac with Windows. I do see 2 reason why it WOULD be beneficial to run XP on a Mac. 1st, I think the performance of the Mac would be useful when running most high demand software within Windows. 2nd, What better way to stick it to the Mac OS creators by sticking a crapa$$ OS onto one of their machines. I would say it hits Microsoft who deserves it but they get paid either way. But in the end, Windows deserves 3 mice buttons thank you IBM.

VISTA SP1 = Due to be released last week, SP1 was postponed until January 08 pending the release of the service pack for the current service pack, you know, a patch to patch the patches. You know what, I hate to say it but PC Mag called this one, Microsoft claimed to have rebuilt Vista from scratch. Now excuse me, but like PC Mag said, in todays world, it is impossible to "Completely" create an OS. All the hardware now depends on cross communications with protocols, ports, programs, YOU, and more. The internet is based on Unix, Websites run Unix or Low band Linux. Your global communications, sorry folks, that's all pre-designed to run on current technology. This means that in order to do what Microsoft claimed, you would have to remake EVERYTHING that talks to a computer. EVERYTHING, Even your iPod.

So 1st, Microsoft who is so worried about the public being honest when using their OS, is straight up misrepresenting itself and it's products by LIEING to us about it's conception to start with.

Next, Vista itself is not ready to be considered a stable OS. But marketers at Microsoft came up with a brilliant idea to make money both now, and in the future and here's how it works.

1. Release Vista to Businesses Only and see how bad it fails, if their networks stay up for a few months and no MAJOR issues get out to the public, proceed to step two.

2. Release Vista to the population. Retail it for an average of $250.00 USD. Make the public be the test subjects, but instead of Microsoft paying for this service which it had to do with all other releases, have the public pay a whopping $250.00 to buy the unfinished Vista as a retail OS replacement.

3. Force Vista... Sign contracts to all major hardware and PC companies to make their future hardware Vista only (Compatibility). Set this phase to start taking effect in 2008-09 pending the release of the first actual stable release SP. Expert predict the Service pack to be the 3rd major release for Microsoft's Vista Project.

4. Release Service Pack 1 in Late 2007 after 6 month report has been received and new updates and fixes are developed. Major SP1 to be released and tested again, by the public.

5. The release of SP2a will be released in mid 2008. Vista will be officially declared stable by now and mainstream adaptation will have begun with over 70% of the U.S. Population.

6. Begin Hardware Vista Force Phase. Hardware and PC makers under contractual obligation will have ceased releasing any PC's without Vista Preloaded by now and hardware support for older OS will not be offered on any Vista Designed Machine.

Amazing Folks, This stuff is actually public knowledge and YOU have the right to go read all the official documents. I couldn't begin to tell you where to go, Library of Congress maybe?

This is all legal, and there are some exceptions like PC and Hardware makers are permitted to continue supporting older equipment sold or manufactured prior to the effective date of the contract.

Now, Microsoft wonders why so many people hate them. They are crooked as hell, and if they would get honorable, the world would cherish them because Windows is truely remarkable. If we could just get Microsoft to stop lying and cheating and frankly, stealing from the planet, if they'd ever be like, Okay we have enough money, let's just be a good honorable company and maybe even give back to the community. If they'd do something like that, man, I'd support them as far as I could. Just like I do with Linux. Linux, it's not about the loot, it's about technology which Microsoft and Apple can steal and add to their OS's. And you wonder why they STILL won't release the Source code for 98???? Hmmm, could it be becuase 98 is Linux with a different GUI and file system. And since it's a company pushing it, they have greedy people sitting in a room all day thinking of how they can screw you again.

I love how Microsoft does their little charity crap, they donate "X" amount of dollars and then they spend 25 times that amount to market and tell the world how they donated to charity. Give me a break yaw.

Thanks for reading, Jonh Boy and Billy, Yaw have a nice day!!

nylesath:

I believe that the day that Microsoft decides to be honest AND stop being hypocritical is the same day that they design an OS that doesn't allow infiltrations from every advertiser with minor programming skills. Or allow applications in the "Run at startup" field that have no business in there to automatically drop a command into the registry and devour even more resources.
We should never need to purchase (or simply download) and external program to protect ourselves from the onslaught of malware that we see appearing on a regular basis.
Microsoft spends so much time and money trying to make their OS pretty, and full of frills, like the glass effect, that eat up resources; then they forget to devote time to things such as fixing security holes and making sure all the drivers included in the cab file will work with the common hardware and software that people use.
They should have fixed these problems with the initial release and then added the bells and whistles to the service pack, like they did with Win95.
And what is this crap that they did to Office 2007? I've had several people asking me where the print button, etc is when the college upgraded to Office 2007. I had to look for these things myself when I am in the IT lab. Microsoft claims they are making things easier to use, but instead, a lot of it has become more complicated than necessary. A print button should not require multiple lesser-skilled users to ask the IT department staff to show them where it is on a regular basis. Anyone should be able to find the most common functions of any application without constantly consulting the help documents.
Still, Microsoft corners the market for applications and hardware to interact with it without installing a lot of proprietary software. For the most part, they have improved upon the Plug and Play design, which Mac still has yet to incorporate. Microsoft can even run Apple products, although I don't recommend it because iTunes and Quicktime have a nasty habit of embedding themselves in the Startup code, thus consuming resources better left to less annoying applications. And users wonder why their computer comes to a crawl after they buy an iPod and install the software...

The Cyberweasel:

All of you out there insisting that we buy a Mac should remember that Macs do NOT support the right-click menu. Why would I want to give that up? Windows may have its flaws, but the features that DO work make the software worth my time.
I see Microsoft as the United States. They've got plenty of issues and security flaws but anyone may interact with them and each application still maintains the right to its own identity.
Apple reminds me more of an Islamic terrorist. They believe it's their way or no way at all and they even come in and drop crap on everybody's doorstep so when you try to start, there they are, preventing the applications from running by consuming all the resources and claiming that they are the best and that everybody MUST convert to the i-Whatever.
Linux, well... maybe Australia? They mind their own business and do whatever they please and as yet no one has been able to successfully infiltrate them to the point where they run home screaming for Norton and McAfee to save them. That brings up another point... Norton and McAfee products are useless against a digital terrorist. Avast will find AND destroy the bugger and not take the period of 3 different presidents to do it. And it will find the virus long before it ever gets a pilot's license.

Dave:

Ive had vista 64bit ultimate for a good 6 months now and there are two main issues I have with it.
1- Drivers/software - My modem is no longer supported and so I had to set up an alternative machine (with xp home) to connect to the internet via lan (Apperently there has been no update since windows 98... stupid fujitsu/telecoms)
Co-inciding with drivers - my machine was completly built by myself, and thus wasnt pre-loaded with all the compatible gizmos and software etc that come with a package pc, I had to find/buy/download them my self - 15-20 minutes searching, and system was up and running perfectly (if I remember correctly wasnt this the exact same problem with XP before manufactores were able to release working drivers?)

2- The other issue, is that irritating admin conformation window that pops up everytime you run something...

I am full admin, I am running this program because I want to. How is opening a "click yes" window making it any more secure. Or is windows assuming a non admin on my account doesn't actually know how to click yes? Also, if you decide to disable this message system, it replaces it with a more annoying ballon in teh taskbar saying "by the way, this feature has been disabled, PLEASE turn it on again..." (or something along those lines)

Ive read every comment on this page and have a few replies of my own...To all those "I love macs, windows sucks" people - why are you wasting your time reading a page about a windows service pack, and then to degrade your self yet further, why are you leaving a comment? Go find something relavent to your life, not mine! Being a fan boy is not clever, and it certainly isn't grown up. If you like {insert OS} good for you, it doesnt make it any better or worse, nor does it mean that everyone else needs to hear about your love for it either. Be mature and keep pointless comments to your self please.

Moving on...

Not by any means is vista a stable OS yet, but for me it works fine - great fps in games (everything maxed out on a single HD2900 512mb card), no lag what so ever, fast loading, no crashes. - To the guy claiming in vista he got minimal FPS, to be honest you are using previous Gen cards, and sparkle ones at that... (from what ive heard and seen, they are notoriously bad compared to equal price/spec competitors correct me if i'm wrong)

Finding compatible software is sometimes annoying, I find usually an updated previous version works better than a new version. but that can be said about many things... Isnt that the entire point of updating things? To make them more reliable, stable and compatible... Hence this service pack/testing of the pack?

Compatibility doesnt grow on trees, and when your dealing with a market as huge and diverse as that in which windows deals, time, effort and the public are needed to test/solve/report the errors...

There is only so much in house testing you can do. Not many businesses (That I know of) have THOUSANDS of computers of entirely different SPECIFICATIONS, each of which with HUNDREDS of varying software packages made by yet more differing COMPANIES, so that they can create a fix for everything... (See where this is going?) Its not as simple as MS going.. "Hmm '[all] programs' dont work, 'this [single] driver' will 'fix them [all]'". however the general public does have this broad range of equipment configurations so what is so wrong with them doing their best with the first release, allowing us to find more bugs - then them fixing them in a service pack, which is then tested yet further before final release?

I don't see many people complaining about Game A not working with their chosen system configuration, or Movie program B, but in principle its the same thing, Not everything can be solved in Version 1, and that alone surely justifies the need to have public testing/error reporting.

As other people said above Mac may be more stable, but as I believe I have covered here, windows deals with a far superior spectrum of components to that of which apple currently do and thus the chances of instability are greatly increased.
If you buy a 3Ghz computer from Apple, it is going to have the same components as anyone else with that same model -
Windows is not the same. Not only do you have differnt companies making a "windows" machine (such as Dell, Sony, Ascer etc not to mention custom builds), but they all use different manufacturers for their 'same' model pc's - The numbers on the box might read the same (eg 512mb Ram) but the make/performance/stability is very much differnt.
considdering the vast amount of different set-ups, I think it is quite amazing how stable windows really is, and any improvement should be welcomed, not flamed

whatever:

Okay... Mac OS does support right clicks. you simply have to turn the feature on. their mice have been a one button device for a long time, but since the Mighty Mouse came out, the hardware supports it. don't jump to conclusions. I personally like XP as opposed to vista, but Vista does a really well job with Bioshock, UT3 which of both I own. Speaking of gaming... You can game on a Mac, just go get Transgaming Cedega. did I mention that Transgaming cedega does a great job of handling your favorite pc games on Mac or Linux? You can game anywhere you want to. The OS is just personal preference. Vista may have some issues, but It's ok. Same with XP, Mac OS, and Linux.

markd1967:

just gone for the pc upgrade thing new m/b new video cards new cpu all top end stuff and windows VISTA
WHAT A WASTE OF MONEY AND TIME ?????
im now on my third install of this heap of s//t.
constant crashes NO DRIVER SUPPORT @ALL
waste of time DONT EVEN GO THERE
big pockets bill wants us to do his testing for him AGAIN,how long will it take to get this wright
very pi//ed off markd

gamer541:

umm just to join in. I own a mac, a linux box, windows Xp pc and windows vista laptop.
so far i would have to say linux for extreame eye candy and good usibility, vista for nothin but problems, and basic things such as emailing, mac...for just about everythin, including ea games like the need for speed series.win xp computer isn't even used by me anymore. probs all the time and just not usable. i can get things done on my mac and linux box in about half the time of my microsoft pcs.

aww nuts:

The first computer I owned was an ibook. I loved it because it worked. Granted it was my first computer and I did not know much about computers. But like any other computer I had it had problems with compatibility and stability in some third-party software. I then taught myself to build a pc which ive done three times now. By doing that myself Iv'e learned many of the tricks needed to run a well oiled windows. I just did a new build with a q6600, 4 gig ddr2 800, 8800gtx, 160x2 samsung in raid 0. This is built to handle the newest games on the market with dx 10. it was a little tricky to set up with the raid but I ended up having less problems than xp in raid. PLUS vista detects all of your installed components, finds the correct drivers and installs them for you!! This alone saved me over an hour of instyalling drivers from cds. I am using Vista32 and all games and apps with the exception of my tuner card, have worked perfectly. I use photoshop, word, and many other applications and rarely experience issues . i would rather teach myself to fix compatibility problems then give up the ability to add/change ANY component in my computer and have it work. That is why I enjoy (and sometimes hate) windows.

Deatheru:

People, people, people !!!!!
Always arguing ....... if it's not football or cars is politics and womens, if not it's OS's, I personally think that there's an OS made for everyone, some people are more flexible in their choices and some are more rigid, and as long as you have the time and the means to test and try new things and then decide then you can say you have made the right choice, I personally can't say that I tried so many, I only tried the main versions of windows along the years, and I'm fine with them, they made a booboo now as releasing the vista too soon and with not much support for a lot of hardware and older games, but I am sure by the time SP2 will be released windows vista will be a strong OS, windows XP who's now loved by most of the users when was released first with no SP at all was impossible to keep on running for more than 30 minutes without a crash, not to mention the security issues it had ....... vista I can't really made it crash unless I try hard ........ and it's, as with most of the previous versions, from the explorer .......
it just seems way too long a wait for that SP1 that's all, so they must have trouble indeed

Thank you all and stay with Windows gamers !!!!!!!!!! no console or other platform whatsoever will be as good and as versatile as a PC running windows when it comes to games ........

Anonymous442:

Um I have been getting some pretty serious issues with my Vista Home Premium 64 Bit Edition.

I am not gonna to rag on Vista cause there are alot of nice features, like Start Search and the drivers were just loaded and it helps figure out your issues WHEN you are having them.

All that aside there are ALOT of problems too. NERO7 Platinum doesn't work quite right the BIG issue I have been having is with my IRQ's and my Logitech Controller Device. It crashes OFTEN and gives this Error

0x000000D1

Memory Dump and voila it reboots-Which I like. cause theres NOT an issue on reboot like in XP.

BUT things like Memory Addressing and the 4 Gig Limit NEED Addressing. Mobo's can "see" 8Gig of RAM and you got these Fanboys with there 4 2GIG XMS2 DDR2 Lining up at the Slaughterhouse lmao.

It seems that Vista was Rolled out FAR too early, but thats Microsofts strategy. We PAY them Full Price to R&D there product for them give them feedback then a year or two later its fixed. Mainly because we bought new stuff to replace our old crap.....but somewhat due to the "fixes" which should have been in the BAG upon arrival.

Peoples Bitch about Vista is that it came on the heels of a very Stable OS, XP.

Now I know there will be the Microsoft haters that will point out how UNSTABLE XP was in the Begining. But, that's really not the point. The Point is XP was coming from a completely different place.

You had NT and ME and 2000 all were Paled in comparison to XP.

XP was an IMPROVEMENT.

VISTA is becoming a DISAPPOINTMENT.

Small things like being able to edit an AVI file in Windows Movie maker in XP but in Vista thats NOT possible.

Its like no one at Microsoft ever Told Bill about the damage a NERF bat can do.

I guess my point is MICROSOFT SET the BAR

and then FAILED to DELIVER on the EXPECTATIONS that THEY THEMSELVES SET.

Vista is sort of like Watching Brittany Spears at the VMA's in 07' Shes going thru the moves but I liked her old shit better.

Its VISTA Bitch.....

SGD:

I for one like Vista. Sure it's got a lot of junk included in it, but I haven't had any major problems with it. Microsoft has issues with their new OS's everytime. Either deal with it and wait for the service packs or stay on an older OS.

If you think back, XP was pretty much crap when it first came out, 98 was the same until second edition, ME was a joke, 2000 was pretty solid and so have been the NT lines, but they were designed for business useage.

PCs are not MACs and they never will be. PCs require more work to use, but they are more versatile. You think it's easy making an OS that has thousands of different installable components? These are not MACs with a select few hardware upgrades available. It's easy to make a solid stable OS when you don't have to worry about millions of different possible hardware configurations. If you can't deal with that, switch to a MAC or use a UNIX based OS.

If Vista seems too hard to handle for you, use the business version. It has less bells and whistles to deal with, it's closer to what XP is and it's simplistic to use. Ultimate has a lot packed into it and if you're not smart about it, you'll leave every option that you don't need turned on and it will slow down your machine, but there's no rule that says you have to keep it all on. Go ahead and turn off all those features you don't need and don't plan on using, you can always turn them back on later and without them you'll see a huge improvement.

As for gaming, I've had very few problems and noticed some very nice performance increases. There was a memory issue earlier, but a patch was released and fixed it. If you're using a later model computer, you might want to consider upgrading or purchasing a new computer. Vista is demanding, but it better utilizes what you have.

I'm running an ok computer with vista ultimate. An older 800 series pentium 4 D 2.8 ghtz processor. 2 gbs of 533 ddr2. Nforce 650i Ultra MB. ATI 3870 Video card. I score a 4.7 on the windows ratings, being limited on my processor speeds. For decent gaming, I'd suggest a score of at least 4.

My advice if you plan on gaming on vista, stay away from any computer that doesn't run ddr2 and that isn't using a dual core processor and get yourself a decent video card. I've seen ati 1600's run vista fairly well, but many of the modern games will be requiring a bit more power.

Anonymous101:

you know im going to tell you the difference between a mac, PC, and Linix

Mac:
the totally idiot proof comp, the computer for beginers.
this comp is used for multimedia and thats basiclly it, not very many games for mac so dont get a mac for a idoit proof gaming computer. the reason its idiot proof is because its more stable.

Windows (vista & XP)
Vista:
unless you arent bothered my constant UAC messages, minor errors, or minor driver issues you could get this os. there are a couple of put-downs the os is a resource hog and without a good computer you arent going to experiance it as its ment to be. This os can be a idiot maker if you dont know what your doing
XP:
The everyday os, this is a stable os, easy to use and is not a resource hog. the downside is it doent have all the bells and wistles as other os's but when it comes to average computing this is the os for you

Linix:
Now this os is for advanced users. i really cant say much about this os because ive only used it for a couple days but ill try. this os is for people who are control freaks + computer nerds (not to insult anyone). thats all i have to say, for NOW

Mark:

I have just purchased a laptop from dell (1520 with 1Gb of ram) for my son, I have to say that it is the slowest system I have (3 other PC's all running XP Pro)and the only one running vista, if the much awated SP1 for vista does not sort out the snails pace of this machine then it will be rebuilt with the proven technology of XP SP2, as I know that this works and is reliable.

joe:

theres no doubt vista has its major problems which really shouldnt be there, since we payed good money for it! it wasnt free! we payed for it and thats what m.s dont really understand.
thers absolutly no vista support what so ever. u can ring them or email them they never reply and really dont give a sh.t.
people keep saying "oh it works great for me even makes me a cup of coffee in the morning" . give me a break! u have to look at what the general populas are saying. i keep reading in many tech articles , mags , reviews , gaming forums etc etc about how many damn bugs and probs there are . so if its good for u then lucky u!! very lucky ! or ur just full of b.s!

Anonymous1:

didn't want vista but it was pre-installed and guess what? it continually disables my external soundcard even though i've disabled the onboard one. its a joke especially as i use it for music production.

Anonymous 101:

Hey

Ive got a problem in my Windows Vista Ultimate (a blue screen start up problem). Would getting SP1 fix it?

I've tried getting Vista to fix itself but it cannot do so.

Does anyone know what to do?

joe4morrison:

My friend you are traped with the Blue Screen of Death.. But dont worry i have some thing stored for you i came along on this link.. http://windowsoperatingsystem.blogsome.com/2008/02/08/windows-xp-blue-screen-of-death-stop-codes/ if the things may crack out.

James:

Re-install Vista. If you still get the same problem test your RAM. If you have overclocked anything take them back to stock.