Microsoft Windows Vista

Microsoft has released Windows Vista, the successor to Windows XP. IT Help Central has created instructions for the most common scenarios we've encountered, as well as instructions for connecting to TTU's networked services. Notable changes include an improved interface, better security and a new look called the Aero theme. To see Windows Vista in action please visit Microsoft's website.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact IT Help Central by visiting our website or by phone (806) 742-HELP (4357).

Office 2007

Microsoft has released Office 2007, which includes many improvements such as a new interface called Ribbon. At the following page, we have a more detailed look at Office 2007.

Microsoft Office 2007

Networking

The following guides are available for connecting to TTU's wireless network, as well as VPN.

Security

Keep Windows Vista up-to-date and protected from viruses and threats.

Windows Updates
Symantec AntiVirus 10.2
Windows Defender

Windows Vista includes a free anti-spyware protection program called Windows Defender. Windows Defender will automatically scan and protect your computer from spyware threats.

Note: If Symantec AntiVirus 10.2 is installed, Windows Defender must be disabled. Running Windows Defender and Symantec AntiVirus is known to cause compatibility issues at this time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I activate my copy of Windows Vista?
1. Go to Control Panel -> System and Maintenance -> System.
2. In the Windows Activation section, verify that "Windows is activated."
NOTE: If you see "X days to activate. Activate Window now," click the link to open the activation wizard.
What versions are available for purchase?
Microsoft offers the following versions for purchase. For more details, please visit Microsoft's links below.
- Windows Vista Home Basic
- Windows Vista Home Premium
- Windows Vista Business
- Windows Vista Enterprise
- Windows Vista Ultimate
What are the system requirements for Windows Vista?
Windows Vista uses considerably more system resources than previous versions. If your system does NOT meet the minimum system requirements it is recommended that you do NOT install Vista until your computer has been upgraded.
- IT Help Central Recommends the following settings:
  - 2.0 GHz Pentium 4 or higher
  - 1 GB of RAM or higher
  - 40 GB hard drive or higher
  - 64 MB video RAM or higher
  - DVD drive
- Microsoft's minimum system requirements:
  - 800 MHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor
  - 512 MB
  - 20 GB hard drive with 15 GB free
  - SVGA Video Card (800x600)
To determine if your system has the necessary hardware requirements, verify your settings with a Hardware Assessment Tool at Microsoft's website:
- Hardware Assessment Tool

Known Issues

IT Help Central has noticed the following issues regarding Windows Vista. Included below is a description of each problem and its current solution.

Software Compatibility Issues
Some programs are not compatible with Windows Vista. To verify what applications are officially supported on Windows Vista please visit Microsoft's website:
- http://support.microsoft.com/kb/933305
At this time, the following known compatibility issues exist for Texas Tech specific applications:
- Windows Server 2003 Administrator Pack
- Symantec Antivirus 10.1 (Version 10.2 & above is compatible)
Activation Problems
When activating your copy of Vista, you may receive the following error.
- ERROR: A problem occurred when Windows tried to activate. Error Code 0x80072328.
  1. Open Control Panel then Switch to Classic View.
  2. Click System.
  3. Under the Windows activation section, click Change Product Key.
  4. Re-enter your Windows Vista product key.

General Overview information from Microsoft.com

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