Microsoft Vista Information

What versions of Vista are available?
Under MSU's Microsoft Select Agreement Departments may choose from three versions of the Vista operating system:

Which version is right for me?
To determine which version is the right one it is recommended that you look at each version to determine which edition best suits the needs of your department. Both Vista Business and Enterprise Edition are the main versions intended for widespread use and deployment across campus, these products can be deployed using either MAK or KMS codes. Ultimate is not intended for large deployments as it contains the Media Center components and is only intended to meet the needs of the few users who require the media center capabilities. Ultimate is individualy serialized by microsoft and each product code is only valid for one activation. To better understand the differences between the three available editions of Vista please check the comparison chart below or visit Microsoft's Windows Home Page.

Windows Vista Business Edition is available as a single upgrade license, or a single license with Software Assurance. Enterprise and Ultimate editions are only available after the purchase of Vista Business Software Assurance bundle.

Check out the Microsoft Vista price list.
More information on the benefits of Software Assurance can be found on Microsoft's Volume Licensing Website.

Microsoft Vista Edition Comparison

MS Vista Business Edition
Windows Vista Business Edition contains the following features:
  • Security and Performance Enhancements
  • Windows Search and Internet Explorer 7
  • Meeting space
  • Scheduled and Networked Backup
  • Areo Desktop Experience
  • Windows Defender and Firewall
  • PC to PC Sync
  • Encryption File System
  • Remote Desktop
  • Web Server
  • Fax and Scanning Utilities
  • Domain Joinable
  • Offline folders
  • Group Policy


MS Vista Enterprise Edition
Windows Vista Enterprise Edition contains all of the features of Business with the addition of:
  • SUA (UNIX Subsystem)
  • BitLocker Drive Encryption


MS Vista Ultimate Edition
Windows Vista Ultimate edition contains all of the features of Business and Enterprise with the addition of:
  • Media Center
  • Windows DVD Maker

For more information on Windows Vista please visit Microsoft's Windows Vista Website.

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