Windows Vista features up to the minute design and easy-to-use organizational tools.
Find what you need instantly, on your PC or on the web, with Instant Search, bring more clarity to your tasks with the impressive Windows Aero user experience, and use Windows Flip 3D to help you to see everything you're working on at a glance.

The Microsoft Vista versions shown below are upgrade versions only, and are priced accordingly, an upgrade version is an economical way of installing a preferred Vista edition by upgrading your PC's version of Windows XP.

For more details/compatibility on upgrade versions click here

You can also obtain OEM versions at even lower cost, these editions are typically purchased with a complete computer system, and are identical to full retail versions but lack any packaging and offer limited support, typically online rather than phone support.

"Original Equipment Manufacturer" (OEM) hardware or software is supported by the business or system builder that uses it in the manufacturer of their own equipment.
e.g. Dell would use OEM vista software to install on a laptop, then they would then be the ist point of contact if the buyer were to experience problems with the hardware or software (oem vista) installed on that particular machine.

You can buy an OEM version of Vista with an item of hardware, so you can then assume the status of "Original Equipment Manufacturer" or system builder, this means you will provide your own technical support. (Of course, you can still refer to Microsofts excellent online "help center")

Microsoft is not opposed to the practice. Rather, the company says that people who purchase OEM software will simply be expected to abide by the terms of the licensing agreements.

"After much research, I decided to upgrade from Windows XP Media Center Edition to Vista Ultimate and opted for the OEM version - I wouldn't pay Microsoft the extortionate fee for the full non-OEM version on principle. Installation was a breeze - after installing XP a number of times in the past, I was amazed at how simple Vista was..."
Buyer's Review for Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate OEM 32-bit Edition (Amazon.co.uk)

32 bit	32 bit	32 bit	32 bit
64 bit	64 bit	64 bit	64 bit

What are the advantages of using OEM Vista editions?

The software on the disc is the same as that found in any retail edition.

An OEM licence allows you to receive patches and security updates.

OEM Vista editions are much cheaper than full retail versions.

What are the disadvantages's of using OEM Vista editions?

OEM Vista editions of Windows do not have elaborate packaging or manuals.

OEM software cannot be returned once opened.

OEM Vista versions are not transferable to a new machine.

OEM software is also tied to the motherboard it is first installed on.

Microsoft says that anything is fair game, except the motherboard. Replacing the motherboard in a computer results in a "new personal computer," which is not permitted within the licensing restrictions of OEM Vista software.

However, it has been suggested that an individual could contact Microsoft and report that their motherboard has failed when they want to build a new computer. It is Microsoft's policy to allow motherboard swaps in instances where a system is defective or has suffered a hardware failure.

The comparison table below illustrates the different features that are included in each Vista edition.

* Ensure you buy Windows software from a reputable seller, and not suspect pirate software. Legal software has a Certificate of Authenticity (COA).
A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) is a label that identifies genuine legal Microsoft® Windows® software.

VISTA UPGRADE VERSIONS

If you are considering upgrading from a previous installation of XP, then the table below illustrates the options available.