Vista has many new features that aren't included in XP. Among other features and benefits, it offers:
Sophisticated graphics
Better search and organization tools
Improved security
Easier access to information and applications
New multimedia functions and tools
Improved system tools for backups, updates, and more.
1. Desktop Search
One feature in Windows Vista that I love is the desktop search. Any time you have a folder open, a search box appears in the upper right corner. From there, you can search for any kind of file or information on your computer. While the desktop search is powerful and makes it easy to find files fast, you can also add metadata to your files making it a snap to find them later.
2. Use search to find and launch applications
Searching in Vista doesn't end with desktop search. Using the search box that's built into the Start menu, you can find and launch any application with ease. You don't have to navigate through a nested menu like you do in Windows XP.
Get the same effect in Windows XP: Use Deskbar shortcuts in Windows Desktop Search
More: Use search to find and launch applications3. User Account Control
Although it got a bad rap during development, the User Account Control feature in Vista is shaping up to be one of the best security improvements. In XP, you have to choose between the risks of an Administrator account or the limits of a Limited account. Vista gives you a better option - any time an action could damage your computer (such as installing a new program), User Account Control will require you to enter an Administrator's password.
Get the same effect in Windows XP: Can't be done
More: User Account Control4. Backup and Restore
The backup and restore functions in Windows Vista are greatly improved compared to their XP counterpart. You can backup to more types of devices than ever before, and if you have an external hard drive, you can schedule backups to happen automatically. Combined with improved restore functions, the Backup and Restore features in Windows Vista help to ensure you won't loose important files or information.
Get close in Windows XP: Free automatic backup software
More: Backup and Restore5. Windows Explorer
Windows Explorer is the application that you use to view, organize, and open the files on your computer. Along with the desktop search features, one of my favorite aspects of Windows Explorer in Vista is live icons, which let you see the contents of any file or folder without opening the file.
Get the same effect in Windows XP: Can't be done
More: Windows Explorer6. Windows Speech Recognition
Even though its public debut didn't go well, the inclusion of speech recognition in Vista is a great feature for anyone, but espcially those with disabilities.
Do better in Windows XP: Purchase Dragon Naturally Speaking Professional7. Windows Aero Glass
Depending on your hardware, you might be privledged to experience Windows Aero, the new visual style for Vista. Aero offers transparent window frames, live thumbnails in the taskbar, live thumbnails in the application switcher, and more.
Get close in Windows XP: Try Alt-Tab PowerToy and Virtual Desktop Manager to add live thumbnails to the Alt-Tab screen and the taskbar buttons
More: Windows Aero Glass8. Internet Explorer 7
IE7 is the latest version of Microsoft's popular browser. Largely in response to Firefox's growth, IE7 offers features like tabbed browsing and improved security that make it a must-have. Like Windows Vista, it's still in beta testing, but the final version will be released soon.
Answered by
Madhurima
, an ibibo Master,
at
5:37 PM on July 16, 2008
