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Which Version of Windows is Right for Me?
Author: Buildacomputerguide.com Editors
So you've decided to build your own pc, and now have to make the decision on which version of Windows to install. Seems like an easy thing to figure out, until you start looking at all of the different versions of Windows available. Add to the mix the new Windows Vista, and it gets even more complicated. We will try and break down the different versions in basic terms, and recommend what you should install on your new custom computer.
Windows XP or Windows Vista?
As of this writing, Windows Vista has just hit the market and is taking the world by storm! Well maybe not by storm, but you should definitely consider it when building a new machine. Better security and more features are the standard marketing jargon that Microsoft will throw at you to entice you to give it a try, but there is more to it than that.
The age of 64-bit computing is upon us, and with Windows Vista installed and the latest hardware installed, you can take full advantage of the power of this advanced architecture. So unless you are building a budget type machine, we recommend that you opt for Windows Vista now, and buy 64-bit hardware to support it. Having said that, it may not make sense to run a 64-bit version of Vista right off the bat, until there is more driver and software support, but it is coming, and you want to have the hardware available when it is widely supported.
So Which Version of Windows Vista?
Here are the versions of Windows Vista, as described by Microsoft:
Windows Vista Home Basic - Windows Vista Home Basic is ideal for homes with basic computing needs like e-mail, browsing the Internet, and viewing photos. Easy to set up and maintain, it enables you to quickly find what you're looking for on your PC and the Internet, while providing a more secure environment to help protect you from an unpredictable world.
Windows Vista Home Premium - Windows Vista Home Premium is the preferred edition for home desktop and mobile PCs. It provides a breakthrough design that brings your world into sharper focus while delivering the productivity, entertainment, and security you need from your PC at home or on the go.
Windows Vista Business - Windows Vista Business is the first edition of Windows designed specifically to meet the needs of small businesses. You'll spend less time on technology support-related issues—so you can spend more time making your business successful. Windows Vista Business is the definitive choice for your business today and tomorrow.
Windows Vista Enterprise - Designed to significantly lower IT costs and risks, Windows Vista Enterprise meets the needs of large, global organizations with complex IT infrastructures.
Windows Vista Ultimate - Windows Vista Ultimate is the choice for those who want to have it all. Easily shift between the worlds of productivity and play with the most complete edition of Windows Vista. Ultimate provides the power, security, and mobility features needed for work, and all the entertainment features that you want for fun.
Windows Vista Home Premium is are overall choice for functionality and security features. If you are the type of person that 'likes to have it all', then you should choose Windows Vista Premium, as it includes all features, but a lofty price tag.
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