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Should You Upgrade to Vista?
By now, I'm sure everyone has heard that the new Windows operating system, Vista', is available for purchase. While Vista has been available for corporate licensing since late last year, the full rollout for individual PCs didn't become available until Jan. 30.
The question is: Should you upgrade your machine with this new system?
New Protection Features
Certainly, Windows Vista offers a lot of advantages. It has improved security features, including Windows Defender, which helps prevent spyware installations on your PC as well as better control over your software, and an improved Windows firewall, which restricts other components of Windows from behaving in an unexpected manner if it is attacked.
Windows Vista also provides improved business-networking connectivity, better protects your data from loss if the machine is stolen and can restore your complete machine environment should the hardware fail.
It also includes improved methods for making DVDs, including high-definition DVDs, an improved environment for entertainment options, and makes it easier to locate files or e-mails on your PC with a new component called Instant Search.
Just like the Windows XP rollout, Windows Vista comes in a number of different configurations: Home Basic, Home Premium, Business and Ultimate. Lawyers should use either Business or Ultimate, as those editions contain the necessary features needed to protect and grow your practice. To find out all of the differences between the different versions, go to Microsoft's Web site.
Worth the Cost?
But, of course, there is a cost to all of the added features, both in money and hardware resources. The upgrade cost for Vista Business is $199, and the upgrade price for Vista Ultimate is $259.
But that's not all you may need to buy. Although the minimum RAM configuration for Windows Vista is 512 MB, you really need at least 1 GB of memory to make Vista work efficiently.
Most likely, your current PC has 512 MB or less, so count on spending another $75 to $100 for a memory upgrade.
And while it's true that Windows Vista has a number of software features built into it that previously you may have needed to buy separately, it's most likely that you already have those products on your current machine, so that's not really saving you anything.
In addition, if you have older hardware or peripherals, there is a chance they may not function properly with the new operating system. Manufacturers of hardware, such as printers, scanners or external tape drives, may not have drivers that work with Windows Vista. And if you are using some legacy software applications, there is a possibility those may not run properly under Vista either.
So if you're happy with your current computer's functionality, speed and applications, then now isn't the time to move to a new operating environment. But if you have a computer that is getting long in the tooth, this may be the perfect opportunity (or excuse) to get a new machine loaded with Vista.
As part of the hype surrounding the product, many manufacturers are offering special incentives to purchase new machines, so this may be the time to ditch that four year-old computer and be the first in your office suite to step into the new Vista.
Brian R. Harris is the director of information technology for the ALM Pennsylvania division and the former Editor-in-Chief of LJN's Legal Tech Newsletter's ALM affiliate, The Legal Intelligencer. He can be reached at [email protected].
By now, I'm sure everyone has heard that the new Windows operating system, Vista', is available for purchase. While Vista has been available for corporate licensing since late last year, the full rollout for individual PCs didn't become available until Jan. 30.
The question is: Should you upgrade your machine with this new system?
New Protection Features
Certainly, Windows Vista offers a lot of advantages. It has improved security features, including Windows Defender, which helps prevent spyware installations on your PC as well as better control over your software, and an improved Windows firewall, which restricts other components of Windows from behaving in an unexpected manner if it is attacked.
Windows Vista also provides improved business-networking connectivity, better protects your data from loss if the machine is stolen and can restore your complete machine environment should the hardware fail.
It also includes improved methods for making DVDs, including high-definition DVDs, an improved environment for entertainment options, and makes it easier to locate files or e-mails on your PC with a new component called Instant Search.
Just like the Windows XP rollout, Windows Vista comes in a number of different configurations: Home Basic, Home Premium, Business and Ultimate. Lawyers should use either Business or Ultimate, as those editions contain the necessary features needed to protect and grow your practice. To find out all of the differences between the different versions, go to
Worth the Cost?
But, of course, there is a cost to all of the added features, both in money and hardware resources. The upgrade cost for Vista Business is $199, and the upgrade price for Vista Ultimate is $259.
But that's not all you may need to buy. Although the minimum RAM configuration for Windows Vista is 512 MB, you really need at least 1 GB of memory to make Vista work efficiently.
Most likely, your current PC has 512 MB or less, so count on spending another $75 to $100 for a memory upgrade.
And while it's true that Windows Vista has a number of software features built into it that previously you may have needed to buy separately, it's most likely that you already have those products on your current machine, so that's not really saving you anything.
In addition, if you have older hardware or peripherals, there is a chance they may not function properly with the new operating system. Manufacturers of hardware, such as printers, scanners or external tape drives, may not have drivers that work with Windows Vista. And if you are using some legacy software applications, there is a possibility those may not run properly under Vista either.
So if you're happy with your current computer's functionality, speed and applications, then now isn't the time to move to a new operating environment. But if you have a computer that is getting long in the tooth, this may be the perfect opportunity (or excuse) to get a new machine loaded with Vista.
As part of the hype surrounding the product, many manufacturers are offering special incentives to purchase new machines, so this may be the time to ditch that four year-old computer and be the first in your office suite to step into the new Vista.
Brian R. Harris is the director of information technology for the ALM Pennsylvania division and the former Editor-in-Chief of LJN's Legal Tech Newsletter's ALM affiliate, The Legal Intelligencer. He can be reached at [email protected].
Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace
Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.
Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO
This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.
While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum
For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.
Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed
In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.
From DeepSeek to Distillation: Protecting IP In An AI World
Protection against unauthorized model distillation is an emerging issue within the longstanding theme of safeguarding intellectual property. This article examines the legal protections available under the current legal framework and explore why patents may serve as a crucial safeguard against unauthorized distillation.