Windows Vista

From MissionTechWiki

Windows Vista

• It is still not mature; you will probably be frustrated by some things. Let it mature.
• You will need more memory, but Dual Core processors will be handled better.
• There are security features in Enterprise and Ultimate such as full disk encryption (BitLocker), and change configuration of hardware - but requires hardware support.
  • If no TPM chip then stores key on USB key that is needed at boot time.
  • If TPM chip then notes changes of hardware.
• Vista is still mostly unfriendly with third-party security software. Most anti-virus scanners now have Vista versions. Third-party firewalls are hit-and-miss. Norton (in Norton 360) and ZoneAlarm 7.1 will run under Vista; the Sunbelt and Comodo freeware firewalls aren't yet running under Vista (as of September 2007). Nobody yet has a full-disk encryption tool that will run under Vista; when tools become available, most are likely to require Vista Business (and not support Vista Home).
• Some features of UI require hardware support
• Some security features are going to be annoying to users, so you will end up disabling.
• REGISTRATION/Activation will be a problem for workers in places without connectivity. Vista wants to speak to a registration server every 6 months. It will warn you that it needs such a connection, then after time (30 days?) you will only be able to use IE & validation. This is a big potential problem for such users.
  • Use MAK - Multiple Activation Keys - designed for volume users these allow Activation and do NOT require periodic renewal. Each use of a key depeletes a pool of keys managed by the Microsoft Licensing Website. [1] "Additional requirements include the need to request more activations when the number of activations passes the predetermined limit, the need to manage the installation of MAKs (automated by Business Desktop Deployment (BDD) 2007), the requirement for reactivation when significant hardware changes occur, and the potential need to manually activate systems using a telephone when no Internet connection is available."
• Some machines with Vista Compatible stickers are really only suitable for Home Basic, and the graphics won't support the new GUI. Why bother with Vista??
• Deployments are hardware agnostic, so easier to deploy
• GPO handles more things, such as USB keys.
• Versions a license Code controlled, and you don't need to reinstall. All code is on the CD if not installed.
• ReadyBoost can use a suitable USB Key as a disk cache (up to 2Gb). Vista will ask how you want to use the USB Key when you insert.
• Performance Information Tools can check the system hardware and it will adjust how Vista works for the hardware capability.

Recommendations

What are recommendations for the use of Vista in missions?

Issues

Best Practice

Hints

Original page: http://www.missiontech.info/wiki/Windows_Vista
from the MissionTech Wiki created by the International Conference on Computers and Missions