ITSC Windows Vista Support

Overview

Microsoft Windows Vista , released in January 2007, is the next generation of operating system for desktop PC and notebook computers after Windows XP. This new operating system has implemented many changes over its predecessor, Windows XP, and as a result will require extensive testing by ITSC before it is deployed campus wide. Many large -scaled organizations are waiting to deploy and support Windows Vista until the first major update, Service Pack 1 (SP1), is released and when Windows Vista is widely supported by computer hardware and software application vendors.

Recommendations

At the moment, ITSC recommends Windows XP SP2 as the standard desktop operating system at the University because Windows XP SP2 has higher hardware and software compatibility . For new PC purchases, ITSC recommends purchasing desktop PCs and notebooks with Windows XP. Under the Microsoft Campus Agreement, the University can run Windows XP SP2 on new systems that come with a genuine Microsoft Windows of any versions, including Vista .

Vista Testing Status

ITSC has been testing Windows Vista since its launch and is putting much effort in conducting a more comprehensive test after the release of Windows Vista SP1. The test will be concentrated on Windows Vista Enterprise Edition with SP1 as it has been determined that this version will be best suited for our environment. Before a full deployment and support is possible, ITSC will test all critical campus-wide applications in use by the University. ITSC will also get vendor certification for the applications. ITSC will publish the testing results of the following software on ITSC web site once available:

Office applications and productivity tools
University administrative applications
Learning, teaching and research applications

Migration Strategy and Schedule

ITSC targets to support Windows Vista by late 2008 to early 2009, subject to the testing results on hardware and software compatibility. When started, to allow a gradual deployment, Windows Vista desktop PC shall be brought in on new PCs as part of the University's computer replacement cycle. The previous version of Windows, i.e. Windows XP, will be supported concurrently for a while. The following is the schedule of migration strategy:

Aug 2007	Support of VPN connection for Windows Vista Support of antivirus software – PC-Cillin Internet Security

Feb 2008	Release of Windows Vista SP1 to hardware vendor by Microsoft

Apr 2008	Release of Windows Vista SP1 to public (for selective versions of Windows Vista)

Late 2008 to early 2009	Recommend Windows Vista as the standard operating system and fully support Windows Vista