Windows Vista Edition Features

The Six Editions Of Windows Vista

Below you will find a quick break down of the different versions of Windows Vista and then a handy Vista comparisons table.

Contact us if you want advice about which version of Windows Vista you should buy if you haven't already taken the plunge, or shoot any other questions our way and we would be happy to provide an answer.

Vista Edition Features

Windows Vista's six editions are roughly divided into two target markets, consumer and business, with editions varying to cater for specific sub-markets.  For consumers, there are four editions, with three available for developed countries and Windows Vista Starter edition is limited to emerging markets.

Windows Vista Home Basic is intended for budget users with low needs. Windows Vista Home Premium covers the majority of the consumer market. Windows Vista Ultimate contains the complete feature-set and is aimed at enthusiasts. For businesses, there are two versions. Windows Vista Business is specifically designed for small business, while Windows Vista Enterprise, the premium business edition is only available to customers participating in Microsoft's Software Assurance program.

Vista Home Basic

Designed for the basic user who use their computer for Internet, email, word processing and other basic tasks.  Lacks all the jazzy eye candy and multimedia features of the other editions, but at least on the plus side it does offer the new security, and stability improvements built into the new OS.

Vista Home Premium

Great compromise for the home user who does not want to spend the premium for the computer enthusiast or business features, but who does want to enjoy multimedia tools and the eye candy Aero graphics interface hat make Vista feel like something new.  Includes the Windows DVD Maker and Media Center software among other things over the Home Basic version.

Vista Business

Includes all the features of the Home Basic Edition and additional tools designed for businesses.  It does support the new Aero graphics interface like the Premium version but lacks the Premiums versions multimedia applications.  Includes disk imaging, encrypting features, domain support and built-in faxing and scanning among other things tailored for the business environment.

Vista Ultimate

Contains all the features of every other edition and extra features including BitLocker Drive Encryption, and a collection of downloadable programs, games, and service publications called Ultimate Extras among other things.  This version of geared for the serious user who wants to have it all.

That is a breakdown of the Vista versions in a nutshell.  Checkout the Vista editions comparison table below.

• Windows Vista Introduction