For the first time, Microsoft is releasing a beta pre-release edition of Windows Vista to the public. The beta release is intended for IT professionals and developers but it available openly to everyone with the caution that beta code is still in development and should be only used in test environments.
This means, for all those newbies out there, don't put it on your home pc because if it can wreck havoc, it will, and Microsoft doesn't want to be blamed. You've been warned. Now run along, download your DVD images, burn baby burn and get that hot little install into your hands.
Oh, and please, please READ the fine print on this one. It's well worth it. Make sure your system has the minimum requirements to be considered Vista-capable.
It also appears that Microsoft official speak is still closely adhering to the final release date being in 2007. It has been speculated that the release could have come as early as November 2006, but then Microsoft pushed back their timetable for its commercial release date to January 2007 disappointing many retail marketers and faithful Microsoft fans.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Vista Step-by-step Guides for IT Professionals
Microsoft now has step-by-step guides available for download on its website.
The guides are designed to aid IT professionals in deploying Windows Vista. Some of the guides included are Deploying Vista, Performance Monitoring and Tuning, User Account Control and Trusted Platform Module Services. The guides are in Word document format.
The guides are designed to aid IT professionals in deploying Windows Vista. Some of the guides included are Deploying Vista, Performance Monitoring and Tuning, User Account Control and Trusted Platform Module Services. The guides are in Word document format.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
BitLocker™ Drive Encryption
An exciting new frontier in hardware-based security is being unleashed in Windows Vista. BitLocker™ Drive Encryption promises to provide stronger data protection by attaching a microchip to the motherboard. The microchip, called Trusted Platform Module (TPM), contains passwords, digital certificates, keys and other vital security information. Due to the manner in which BitLocker™ encrypts and unlocks data, Microsoft feels this will ensure your computer is even protected while offline, lost or if it’s stolen. One of the neat things about TPM is that is relies totally on hardware to provide software encryption/decryption. Because it does not rely on the operating system, and rather its own internal circuitry, it is not vulnerable to software attacks.
An interesting side note: According to an article I read at PCWorld TPM theoretically could be used in some pretty nefarious ways to circumvent the long arm of the law gaining access to your PC. Considering that we often see news footage of PC’s being carted away to aid the prosecution, this technology could prove to be quite a bump in the road. Do I hear a Justice Department review getting started already?
For those of you who are already running Vista, you can enable BitLocker™ Drive Encryption even without the TPM. I must warn you, this is not for the light-hearted. It can render your machine unusable if done incorrectly. So kids, don’t try this at home. And the rest of you, if you must, do this on a test machine. For the complete set of instructions, check out this site.
An interesting side note: According to an article I read at PCWorld TPM theoretically could be used in some pretty nefarious ways to circumvent the long arm of the law gaining access to your PC. Considering that we often see news footage of PC’s being carted away to aid the prosecution, this technology could prove to be quite a bump in the road. Do I hear a Justice Department review getting started already?
For those of you who are already running Vista, you can enable BitLocker™ Drive Encryption even without the TPM. I must warn you, this is not for the light-hearted. It can render your machine unusable if done incorrectly. So kids, don’t try this at home. And the rest of you, if you must, do this on a test machine. For the complete set of instructions, check out this site.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Totally Awesome Vista News!
I just read that DELL is boosting the memory in their XPS systems to 1GB without raising the prices. This is great Vista news because Vista really requires that much memory, so for those of you planning on buying new systems, manufacturers are getting ready.
Another COOL Vista Launch Contest
Over at VistaBabble.com, where I'm a moderator, they are giving away a free copy of Windows Vista Home Premium Edition upon its release. Get Contest details here.
VistaBabble.com is an awesome forum where you can get great tips, help installing Vista and a whole lot more.
VistaBabble.com is an awesome forum where you can get great tips, help installing Vista and a whole lot more.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Vista Launch Contest
Microsoft has put together a promotion and giveaway contest for 10 lucky winners. Guess the official launch date of Vista, and you could win one of many prizes including being in attendance the official launch courtesy of Microsoft or an XBOX. Enter as often as you’d like and the closer you are to the date, the better your chances are of winning.
Good Luck!
Click Here to try your luck.
Good Luck!
Click Here to try your luck.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Vista Computer
Well I'm finally considering getting a new pc. My current one is my baby. I built it from scratch, burned it in and we've been in a love/hate relationship ever since. But as that was quite a few years ago, it's time for an upgrade.
And as I digest the new specs for the upcoming release of Vista, I'm getting rather excited. So I'm going to start looking for my next dream machine. The new OS has some interesting new demands and although I'm not going to build a Vista-spec-only machine, I am certainly going to go for main requirements and then I'll be ready to welcome her in when she's finally released.
My aim to create the ultimate graphics machine which coincidentally has some of the same needs as Vista. I've been researching gamer's forums to see what's hot there as well, as quite honestly, gamers have similar reqs as graphic artists.
So far, Microsoft hasn't released any official minimum hardware requirements, but it's safe to say that looking at the beta version requirements, Vista is going be a much more demanding system. According to the Microsoft website, they actually state that you should have a modern CPU. All due respect, but that’s like saying you should buy a shiny diamond. Though to give them credit, they do link to Intel and AMD’s sites that specify in more detail the credits of a “modern CPU.” Since I’m still an Intel diehard, I’ll probably continue to stick with them. I’m completely psyched about dual-core, so the Pentium D 930 looks like a good choice. Unless I wanted to build my own system again, then I’d have to look at the Pentium Extreme Edition that offers both dual-core and hyper-threading.
Vista has been hinting at the need for 256mb graphics card to fully enjoy the visual glass effect of Vista Aero. DirectX version 9 will be imperative, as will the ability for your graphics card to support WDDM. No, that has nothing to do with WMD's. WDDM is Windows Display Driver Model and it's important to note, as not all graphics cards are WDDM capable. Looks like we can also bid AGP adieu as Vista uses PCIx. So a PCIx16 graphics slot is necessary. Right now, I’m favoring the nVidia GeForce 7800 GT.
And then of course, there’s memory. So far we’re hearing 512MB is recommended. And there’s talk of upwards to 2GB being optimal. Holy DIMM-sticks! I remember when 32MB was considered revolutionary. In all fairness, they do say systems will be able to run on 128MB but at a sacrifice of performance and speed. Well, I’m talking dream machine here, so I’ll definitely want that 2GB.
With all this talk about graphics cards, I can’t forget the new monitor. Vista is going to present some pretty cool new options for end-users with this operating system. Things like HDTV and wide-screen capability are going desktop. Right now, I like the Dell UltraSharp 2405FP, despite its mixed reviews depending on what production version you get, it’s a behemoth 24” of sweet bliss for the eyes, the ViewSonic VP930, which is just an all around solid screen, but only 19” and the LaCie 321, that blows away the competition in both performance and price. Making the switch from my trusty ViewSonic G810 CRT to an LCD will be tough. But I think LCD’s have come a long way and I’m ready to take the plunge. It sure will take up less space on my desk, and I won't have to worry about it crushing my 4 year old if it falls on him.
So here's keeping my fingers crossed to find all the awesome components I'm looking for in a pre-built configuration.
And as I digest the new specs for the upcoming release of Vista, I'm getting rather excited. So I'm going to start looking for my next dream machine. The new OS has some interesting new demands and although I'm not going to build a Vista-spec-only machine, I am certainly going to go for main requirements and then I'll be ready to welcome her in when she's finally released.
My aim to create the ultimate graphics machine which coincidentally has some of the same needs as Vista. I've been researching gamer's forums to see what's hot there as well, as quite honestly, gamers have similar reqs as graphic artists.
So far, Microsoft hasn't released any official minimum hardware requirements, but it's safe to say that looking at the beta version requirements, Vista is going be a much more demanding system. According to the Microsoft website, they actually state that you should have a modern CPU. All due respect, but that’s like saying you should buy a shiny diamond. Though to give them credit, they do link to Intel and AMD’s sites that specify in more detail the credits of a “modern CPU.” Since I’m still an Intel diehard, I’ll probably continue to stick with them. I’m completely psyched about dual-core, so the Pentium D 930 looks like a good choice. Unless I wanted to build my own system again, then I’d have to look at the Pentium Extreme Edition that offers both dual-core and hyper-threading.
Vista has been hinting at the need for 256mb graphics card to fully enjoy the visual glass effect of Vista Aero. DirectX version 9 will be imperative, as will the ability for your graphics card to support WDDM. No, that has nothing to do with WMD's. WDDM is Windows Display Driver Model and it's important to note, as not all graphics cards are WDDM capable. Looks like we can also bid AGP adieu as Vista uses PCIx. So a PCIx16 graphics slot is necessary. Right now, I’m favoring the nVidia GeForce 7800 GT.
And then of course, there’s memory. So far we’re hearing 512MB is recommended. And there’s talk of upwards to 2GB being optimal. Holy DIMM-sticks! I remember when 32MB was considered revolutionary. In all fairness, they do say systems will be able to run on 128MB but at a sacrifice of performance and speed. Well, I’m talking dream machine here, so I’ll definitely want that 2GB.
With all this talk about graphics cards, I can’t forget the new monitor. Vista is going to present some pretty cool new options for end-users with this operating system. Things like HDTV and wide-screen capability are going desktop. Right now, I like the Dell UltraSharp 2405FP, despite its mixed reviews depending on what production version you get, it’s a behemoth 24” of sweet bliss for the eyes, the ViewSonic VP930, which is just an all around solid screen, but only 19” and the LaCie 321, that blows away the competition in both performance and price. Making the switch from my trusty ViewSonic G810 CRT to an LCD will be tough. But I think LCD’s have come a long way and I’m ready to take the plunge. It sure will take up less space on my desk, and I won't have to worry about it crushing my 4 year old if it falls on him.
So here's keeping my fingers crossed to find all the awesome components I'm looking for in a pre-built configuration.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
User Account Control
The Name Changes, But Goal Remains the Same
What is User Account Control (UAC)?
User Account Control (UAC) has gone through several names until settling on its final title. Originally known as Limited User Accounts and then User Account Protection, User Account Control is a core security feature in Vista. It is intended to be the progression of Windows Administrator privileges and a huge hike up in their overall concept of desktop security, as we know it.
The concept of user permissions has been around since Windows NT, but most applications fail to run in a non-administrator capacity. The UAC aims to change all that, making standard mode the default, and an easy option for everyone to utilize.
User Account Control will run your computer in standard user mode allowing you to do most common actions, but require permission to install applications or make changes to your system. Running your system in standard user mode greatly decreases the probabilities of security breaches to you computer. When you want to install a program, or make changes to the settings, you’ll be required to enter the Administrator’s password.
So when you go to install a program on your system, the Consent Dialog will pop up. The Consent Dialog box tells you when you’re going to do something that requires Administrator privileges. You’ll have to grant or deny permission at this point. If this box appears unexpectedly, it may signal a hackers attempt to access your system or an installation of spyware.
For one, this is a good step towards preventing unwanted malware being installed on your computer without the end user knowing it, however, I’m interested to see how difficult it may make using your system in practical ways. I have high hopes that Microsoft can tweak the final version of UAC to make both worlds mesh nicely.
And while the UAC’s intentions are good, Microsoft warns it may take users awhile adjust to this new protocol and to fully appreciate its long-term benefits. MSDN likens the experience to seatbelts in automobiles. Sounds like a major inconvenience to sysadmins, and a confusing concept for support techs to explain to novices. Should prove interesting to see how the general public receives this “feature”.
What is User Account Control (UAC)?
User Account Control (UAC) has gone through several names until settling on its final title. Originally known as Limited User Accounts and then User Account Protection, User Account Control is a core security feature in Vista. It is intended to be the progression of Windows Administrator privileges and a huge hike up in their overall concept of desktop security, as we know it.
The concept of user permissions has been around since Windows NT, but most applications fail to run in a non-administrator capacity. The UAC aims to change all that, making standard mode the default, and an easy option for everyone to utilize.
User Account Control will run your computer in standard user mode allowing you to do most common actions, but require permission to install applications or make changes to your system. Running your system in standard user mode greatly decreases the probabilities of security breaches to you computer. When you want to install a program, or make changes to the settings, you’ll be required to enter the Administrator’s password.
So when you go to install a program on your system, the Consent Dialog will pop up. The Consent Dialog box tells you when you’re going to do something that requires Administrator privileges. You’ll have to grant or deny permission at this point. If this box appears unexpectedly, it may signal a hackers attempt to access your system or an installation of spyware.
For one, this is a good step towards preventing unwanted malware being installed on your computer without the end user knowing it, however, I’m interested to see how difficult it may make using your system in practical ways. I have high hopes that Microsoft can tweak the final version of UAC to make both worlds mesh nicely.
And while the UAC’s intentions are good, Microsoft warns it may take users awhile adjust to this new protocol and to fully appreciate its long-term benefits. MSDN likens the experience to seatbelts in automobiles. Sounds like a major inconvenience to sysadmins, and a confusing concept for support techs to explain to novices. Should prove interesting to see how the general public receives this “feature”.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Microsoft: Bill....er....Clinton???
Please tell me it's not true!!! Clinton is courting Gates and Gates is courting Clinton!! Rumor has it, that Clinton is interviewing for Microsoft's top spot once current head honcho Steve Ballmer vacates. Clinton has in fact been spotted at Microsoft headquarters. What is this world coming to?? Has Clinton even ever used a computer? Surely, if he has, he didn't turn it on.
Perhaps if it was an honorary title, ya know like the ones colleges hand out to esteemed individuals, I could be more accepting. Or perhaps Gates is looking for more of a celebrity-type notoriety than the dull computer protocol he has built his life around. Or maybe even still, he's looking to circumvent any further DOJ entanglements. The later seems the most likely.
So for now, it's just a rumor, and we 'll have to wait to find out what Bill and Bill have in mind.
Perhaps if it was an honorary title, ya know like the ones colleges hand out to esteemed individuals, I could be more accepting. Or perhaps Gates is looking for more of a celebrity-type notoriety than the dull computer protocol he has built his life around. Or maybe even still, he's looking to circumvent any further DOJ entanglements. The later seems the most likely.
So for now, it's just a rumor, and we 'll have to wait to find out what Bill and Bill have in mind.
Security Concerns
Microsoft has released a security patch for it's beta-version of Vista, build 5270. Yes, it's true, the Washington giant is releasing patches for software it hasn't even officially released yet. Gotta love that. Well, it's about time they started acting like they were on the ball.
The patch addresses the same vulnerability that was discovered last month for XP. Basically, the vulnerability allows hackers to gain remote access to PCs and install malicious software on them. Considered "extremely critical" by several security vendors, affects systems running Windows XP as well as Windows Server 2003.
The patch addresses the same vulnerability that was discovered last month for XP. Basically, the vulnerability allows hackers to gain remote access to PCs and install malicious software on them. Considered "extremely critical" by several security vendors, affects systems running Windows XP as well as Windows Server 2003.
Monday, January 16, 2006
Welcome to VistaSphere!
VistaSphere is my newest project revolving Windows latest operating system. Windows Vista, as it's currently being called, has long been known as Longhorn. Well, as we approach the release date of this Microsoft O/S, I'll be keeping this site updated with various tips, techniques, troubleshooting and trivia surrounding Vista. I'll also include any sites that Vista users will find helpful in their quest to upgrade, install or avoid MS Vista. Personally, I'm quite excited about this new O/S, not that I think it promises to impress users beyond compare, its just that any time a new software comes out, especially in the operating systems genre, it makes me take note.
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