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.