Our recommendation at Lite is

• Yes: for your personal computer at home
• No: not at this time for your business computer at the office.

For business-class computers, there are three main factors to consider:

1) Reliability and Dependibility: Windows XP has been a proven product since its release in October 2001.  Combined with Service Pack 2, the latest patch of the software, it has been the stable mainstay of computer networks worldwide.  Vista is a new kind of animal: sleek, fast, and flexible, but it has not yet proven itself stable in network environments.

2) Compatibility: Every new software contains minor bugs when it comes to interacting with other software. Vista is no different.  Both Microsoft and other software developers must cooperate together to ensure that your Quickbooks, Expedition, etc do not have any conflicts with Vista.  This process will take awhile, usually 3-6 months.  There is no reason to risk the operations of your business during these early stages.

3) Price: With the push by Microsoft towards Windows Vista, demand for XP, especially in the personal sector, has fallen.  Windows XP prices have been falling accordingly, which means a better deal for you and extra funds available for your company's other priorities.

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Remember, this evaluation is for business-class computers and a recommendation for the next 6 months.  Vista IS undeniably a breakthrough product that delivers increased security and ease of use, and we whole-heartedly recommend it for your personal computer at home.  A number of us here have already upgraded our home PC. 

Yet Lite Technology itself will only be upgrading to Vista once it believes it is a reliable, dependable, and compatible platform for our IT infrastructure and for those of our customers. 

Until next time,

Lite Technology, your IT Department