What are some of Vista’s most important new features?
All versions of Vista — including Starter — feature Microsoft’s built-in firewall, which now blocks outbound traffic, theoretically preventing an attacker from taking control of your machine if he or she happens to gain access. Microsoft has also added malware protection to all versions of Vista by bundling its Windows Defender anti-spyware application with Vista. Finally, all versions of Vista include Internet Explorer version 7, which includes security features such as a filter for combating phishing scams. If you opt for one of the pricier Vista versions, you’ll notice that the OS’s interface now bears a resemblance to that of a Macintosh. Dubbed Aero, this interface displays thumbnails of all open windows and allows the user to flip through them. The Home versions of Vista also now include Microsoft Media Center features, which allow users to perform tasks such as burn DVDs, record TV, and organize or edit photographs. For a more in-depth look at Windows Vista’s feature set, read P
