Windows Vista Business Upgrade 64-Bit (Includes Software Assurance) (English)

Windows Vista Business is the business-oriented edition of the previous Microsoft operating system. It should be requested by organizations whose computers cannot support the system requirements of the latest Microsoft operating system, Windows 7. Compared to Windows XP, it features increased ease of use, better security, more search capabilities, and improved wired and wireless networking. This 64-bit version operates on a computer with a 64-bit processor and 64-bit drivers.

This is an upgrade product. To install this operating system, you must have a valid license that is not in use on another computer for one of the following operating systems: Windows 2000; Windows XP Media Center, Tablet PC, Professional, or Professional x64. This installation requires a "clean install," so if the computer has an existing operating system, you must remove all files and applications, install the system, and then copy back the files and reinstall the applications.

Windows Vista Business requires significant system resources, as detailed below. Although Vista will operate on a computer with the minimum hardware configuration described in the system requirements below, some features, such as the Aero graphical interface, need the recommended configuration.

Here are some notable features of this product:

• Information organization, search, and sharing is improved. For example, Instant Search finds information anywhere on the computer — even within email — and the save functionality in the new Search Folders feature makes it possible to rerun favorite searches.
• A smarter, more easily configured, and automatically running Windows Firewall helps protect against many types of malicious software, including software that attempts to initiate outbound connections.
• Remote Desktop Connection makes it possible to access a PC remotely, whether across an organization's network or through the Internet from another PC.
• The Network Center aids in recognizing and automatically connecting to wireless networks and network devices, such as displays and projectors.

Important Volume Licensing Information: With Windows Vista, organizations can choose between two types of volume license keys for product activation: a Key Management Service (KMS) license key or a Multiple Activation Key (MAK). Organizations will be provided with both types of keys on the Microsoft Volume Licensing website, but they should only use one to active their product.

A KMS key requires at least 25 computers on a network for activation. Organizations with fewer than 25 computers should use a MAK.

Acquiring the Installation Media and License Key: Installing this product requires installation media and a license key. Installation media will be shipped to you free of charge.

The license allows you to use the installation media to install the product on as many computers as you have received donations for. This quantity is specified in the donation email sent to your organization email address after your eligibility has been verified and your administrative fee has been received. A separate email will give you information about obtaining your license key.

Software Assurance: Under the Software Assurance program, you have the right to install any new release of products covered in the agreement during the term of your coverage.