What are the disadvantages of Windows Vista/7 vs. Windows XP?
The improvements in the user interface and security place greater demands on hardware. Machines require more RAM and CPU resources to maintain the operating system itself, leaving fewer resources available to applications. At the application level, the security enhancements have introduced various application compatibility issues. These issues will need to be worked out by the software manufacturers. While some manufacturers have already updated their applications for Vista/7 support, many have not. The same applies to hardware manufacturers. Drivers will need to be updated to provide support for Vista.