Have you been wondering how you can tell which software and devices take advantage of the features of Windows Vista? You can easily identify these products by looking for the devices and software that are Certified for Windows Vista. Read below for more specifics on the program, and then
enter to win thousands of dollars worth of Certified for Windows Vista products.
What does it mean to be Certified for Windows Vista?
You all have probably seen the Designed for XP logo that appears on PCs. The Windows Vista Logo Program is the next generation, however, we’ve made two important changes. First, we’ve extended this program to encompass not only PCs, but also peripheral devices and software, which is what I plan on writing about today. Secondly, we’ve set up a certification process, so that devices and software need to be independently tested before they qualify for the logo. So, yes, there are there thousands of applications and devices that are compatible with Windows Vista, however, Certified devices and software have been tested to help ensure that they are compatible with the premium features of Windows Vista. Devices and software that carries the Works with Windows Vista logo are tested for baseline standards of compatibility with all PCs running Windows Vista.
Devices:
To talk a bit more specifically about devices, all device drivers are independently tested to meet Microsoft standards for reliability, performance, and best software writing practices. We are continuing to add approximately 1,600
Certified device drivers per month. These devices will easily connect to Windows Vista with a guide that helps you through the installation process if needed. Wireless devices are also intuitive to set-up and security-enhanced.
Devices are also tested to deliver performance and quality beyond basic compatibility, so you can have high-definition experiences with photos, music, videos and communications. For example, they are able to take advantage of Windows Vista features like native DVD burning, Network and Sharing Center and Windows Aero user experience. Color sensitive devices like monitors and printers work together with the Windows Color System so when you print pictures, they look like what’s on your screen. Certified wireless routers provide reliable connectivity for demanding applications like on-line gaming and HD media streaming, while wireless networks are security-enhanced by default.
Software:
And now on to some software specifics. I want to emphasize here that
Certified for Windows Vista software products are tested to Microsoft’s compatibility standards to help make software easy to install, better performing and more secure. For example, software is specifically tested to minimize the number of crashes, hangs and reboots that are typically experienced by users. It also installs without degrading the performance of Windows Vista or other applications. I also think it’s important to mention that Certified software should continue to improve over time, because we require that they not just include error reporting, but that they also use this data to continually update their product. Certified software is also designed to work with advanced security features in Windows Vista, as well as meets the Anti-Spyware Coalition privacy guidelines.
I’m planning on posting information about specific Certified products on a regular basis, so continue to check back for product highlights and deeper spec information. This is a just an introduction to the program. Don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any questions. In the meantime,
enter each week for a chance to win a ton of great products from our partners.
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