MS Vista Challenges & Issues
Although Vista has quite a few advantages over Windows XP, this new operating
system presents a number of challenges for the campus:
- Compatibility with existing PCs: Many computers that can run Windows XP
effectively cannot run Vista at all or may not be able to take advantage of
all the features. In some cases, hardware upgrades may be necessary. The
versions of Vista that would likely be most appropriate for campus use all
require at least 1 GB of RAM, a 40
GB hard drive with at least 15 GB free, and
a DVD drive. In addition, many machines will require a new graphics card to
take advantage of the Aero graphical user interface.
- Compatibility with peripherals: Peripheral equipment such as printers,
scanners, and external storage devices all need to have driver software that
is compatible with Vista. Although many devices are already compatible with
Vista, some are not (and some devices may never work with Vista).
- Performance: Some older machines that are capable of running Vista may
perform better running Windows XP.
- Software compatibility: Although some software will run without any
problems on Vista, other applications will require updates. On the Berkeley
campus, there are many custom applications and a significant number of
administrative systems that need to be tested for compatibility with Vista.
- Training: Even though Vista's user interface for the most part is not
radically different from previous versions of Windows, the differences are
significant enough that users will need training to take advantage of new
features and be comfortable with the new operating system. In addition, IT
staff on campus need to acquire the expertise necessary to support Vista.
- Cost: Vista is not a free upgrade (although new PCs are
either shipping with Vista or with the right to upgrade to Vista from
Windows XP at no additional cost). In addition, there are the costs associated
with upgrades and training, alluded to above.
- Unanticipated issues: Because Vista is such a new product and such a
major change, there will no doubt be unexpected issues that will arise.
Initial releases of operating systems virtually always have bugs, often
serious ones.
The campus is working to address these challenges and will update its
recommendations regarding Vista as issues unfold and challenges are addressed.
Although Vista will ultimately replace Windows XP, Windows XP will continue to
be supported for quite some time.