Windows Vista Editions
Vista comes in a few different editions. The most simple (and least expensive version) is Home Basic. The next edition is called Home Premium, which adds a few media and portable PC features. The Business edition adds certain business functionality, but lacks some of the media features Premium has. Microsoft has an Enterprise edition, but is not available through retail channels to the general public. Finally, there is Ultimate Edition, which includes features from both the business and home editions. For home users who do not need business functionality, I would recommend Home Premium.
Windows Vista Editions |
| | Home Basic | Home Premium | Business | Ultimate |
| Security - Windows Defender, product updates, two-way firewall, etc. | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Basic Applications - Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, Windows Mail (replaces Outlook Express), etc | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Portable Tools | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Windows Media Center | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Windows Aero - a new interface | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Backup/Recovery Software | No | Basic version | Yes | Yes |
| Hard Drive Encryption | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Games - chess, freecell, hearts, solitaire, etc | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Windows Movie Maker (high definition) & Windows DVD Player | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Remote Desktop - control a remote computer | Host only | Host Only | Yes | Yes |