Chart: Six versions of Vista

A Vista for all seasons

Microsoft has decided to offer six distinct versions of the Windows update. Here they are from simplest to most tricked-out.


Version


Windows Vista Starter

Sold only on new PCs in emerging markets such as India and Thailand. Runs only on 32-bit machines, and will be able to handle only a limited number of programs at a time.


Windows Vista Home Basic


Comparable to XP Home. Has the security and search abilities particular to Vista, but does not offer its fancy graphics or high-end media features.


Windows Vista Home Premium


A higher-end option for consumers. Adds support for Vista's new graphics as well as Media Center and Tablet PC features.

Windows Vista Business

Similar to XP Professional. It's the mainstream corporate OS; also contains extra tools for small businesses.

Windows Vista Enterprise

Available only to customers with volume licenses. Includes all of the features of Vista Business, with the addition of encryption, Unix services and virtual machine capabilities.


Windows Vista Ultimate

Combines the features of Windows Vista Enterprise and Windows Vista Home Premium to offer the highest-end version of Windows yet.

Note: Microsoft will also offer "N" versions of Vista Home Basic and Vista Business in Europe that have Windows Media Player removed.