Published on February 21, 2007

Dear Pony,
What’s the deal with Microsoft Vista? Should I upgrade? Can I upgrade?
-Cory McFictitious (Sophomore, Soap Opera Studies)

I'm glad you asked, Cory. The answer depends on a few things. If a new computer is in your future, that computer may come loaded with Vista. If you don’t plan on a new computer anytime soon, you can continue using Windows XP.

Microsoft will continue to support Windows XP, probably for years to come. However, if you do plan to upgrade you need to know that there are significant increased system requirements. Check out Microsoft.com for more details. Something else to consider: Vista may not yet be compatible with every application that you may be using.

If you plan to upgrade, know that the Penn State Computer Store will have the Vista Business Edition for personal and student purchase sometime in April. And, just so you know, the ITS Computer labs will not be installing Vista until the summer of 2008.

Bottom line, if you’re keeping your old computer, there’s really no need to rush out and purchase Vista, just yet.

PS: I told you the Colts would win. Yee-Haa!