A new version of Microsoft Windows is right around the corner.  It is called Windows Vista.  Windows Vista Beta 2 is actually available for anyone to download and try out.  I wouldn’t suggest you do that unless you put it on a computer that is not your primary workstation. 

But before you do that, you should know the system requirements to run this new OS.  The new “sys-reqs” will eliminate some people from running this OS on their current computers.

Here are the minimum requirements:

·         1 GHz processor.

·         1 GB of memory.

·         A graphics processor that runs Windows Aero2 (the name for the new graphical user interface or gui).

·         128 MB of graphics memory.

·         40 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free; a DVD drive, speakers, and Internet access.

OK – so that eliminates a lot of computers right off the bat.  Even some slightly older computers may not even have the ability to be upgraded to reach those minimum requirements.  And these are minimum – in the computer specs world, more is better.

Windows Vista has a release date of January, 2007.  So if you are shopping for a new computer these days, be sure that the computer you are considering purchasing will have the capability of running this new operating system.  OR – just wait until they begin shipping computers with the new system pre-installed.

And there are other considerations.  Be aware that when you install this new operating system, or buy a new computer with the system pre-installed, some of your old software may not work.  You may need to upgrade some of your favorite software packages.  This website has a review of Windows Vista and lists some software that may or may not be compatible with Vista. 

http://www.winsupersite.com/reviews/winvista_beta2_04.asp

Want to do a little of your own research?  Check out the Windows Vista homepage: