The decision for some home and small-business users to upgrade to Microsoft Windows Vista depends mainly on what the new operating system can do for you and what hardware you have to run it on.

The Good:

• Better security features promising increased protection against viruses and security vulnerabilities
• Significant improvements in file search and home entertainment capabilities
• Fewer system crashes than Windows XP
• Enhanced networking system that makes sharing files and digital media easier between computers
• Customizing and multitasking is made easy with Windows Sidebar and “tabbed” browsing

The Bad:

• Compatibility issues with other applications - according to Fidelity National Real Estate Solutions executives, Realtors may not be able to install or use their current productivity or MLS-access software on it because the bugs haven't been worked out yet between Vista and other software vendors
• Compatibility issues with certain handheld devices and cell phones
• Windows Vista is a battery drainer - if you use it on a laptop for your real estate business, it could exhaust the battery in less than two hours
• Demands more hardware requirements ( There is a minimum (" Vista Capable") requirement of at least 512MB of RAM and a 800MHz CPU just to run the standard features)
• No new software yet written solely for Windows Vista
• Too many different editions

The Bottomline:

Windows Vista is basically warmed-over Windows XP. If you are currently happy with Windows XP SP2, there is no forceful reason to upgrade. On the other hand, if you need a new computer right now, Windows Vista is adequately stable for daily use. Meaning, there's nothing wrong with Windows Vista if you desperately need to buy a new computer. But there's no one compelling feature within Windows Vista that necessitates switching over.

Thinking of Upgrading to Windows Vista?

If you are thinking of upgrading your Windows XP-based computer Windows Vista, download Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor from http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/buyorupgrade/upgradeadvisor.mspx. Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor is a small software tool that will help you determine if your Windows XP-based PC can run Windows Vista. It will scan your computer and create an easy-to-understand report of all known system, device, and program compatibility issues, and recommend ways to resolve them. It can also help you choose the edition of Windows Vista that best fits the way you want to use your computer.

Things to Consider Before Upgrading to Windows Vista

• Real Estate Applications Compatibility
  
  Verify if specific real estate applications are compatible with Vista. Contact the software vendors and find out if they guarantee the software is completely compatible with Vista.

• The Cost to Upgrade
  
  Identify the cost of the recommended Windows Vista version, the required hardware for installation as well as any other software upgrade. Decide if it is cost-effective to buy a new computer with Vista or upgrade an older system.

• The Time to Upgrade
  
  The transition to a new operating system may demand time to become familiar with the new elements. Exploring novel features while facing deadlines may be exasperating.