How to Get Windows Vista

• 1). Make sure that Windows Vista is the right operating system for your computer before you make a purchase. Go to www.microsoft.com. Once you're on the home page, click on Windows at the top of the screen. This will open a new page that will display the latest version of Windows that is available. As of December 2009, this is Windows 7.
  
  
• 2). At the top of the screen, select Products. This will list all versions of Windows available for purchase.
  
  
• 3). Select Windows Vista. This will open a new page with information regarding Windows Vista.
  
  
• 4). Determine if your computer can run Windows Vista. Select the option on this screen that says "See if your PC can run Windows Vista." This will open a new page that will let you check the software and hardware already on your computer to check its compatibility. You can also run the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor, but it only works with 32-bit versions of Windows XP and Vista.
  
  
• 5). Find out which edition of Windows Vista you need by selecting "Compare Editions" at the top of the screen. Home Basic offers very minimal options; if you are someone who likes to burn DVDs or automatically back up your computer, this is not the right version for you. Vista also comes in Home Premium, Business and Ultimate. Vista Ultimate offers many options, such as protection against data loss, but it is the most expensive. Find out what you need the operating system to allow you to do and choose accordingly. You don't want to pay for options you'll never use.
  
  
• 6). Once you've determined that Vista will run on your computer and which version will meet your needs, you can now make your purchase. Check your local directory or search online for computer technicians and repair shops in your area. They may still offer Windows Vista since most big stores like Best Buy have switched to Windows 7. If they don't carry it, they should know the best places locally and online to obtain the version you require. They may also be able to broker the purchase for you but will probably charge you a fee for your time.