Windows Vista is available in many different editions, each one uniquely equipped and priced. Most of these editions are also available in either 32-bit or 64-bit versions, depending on the type of CPU you have. (Most PCs use the 32-bit version; however, if you have a new computer with a 64-bit processor, select a 64-bit version.)

The available editions are:

• Windows Vista Starter: The most basic edition, available only in emerging markets (mostly Asia and South America) and only in the 32-bit version. It allows only three applications or windows to be open at the same time and connects to the Internet but not a network.
• Windows Vista Home Basic: The simplest and least expensive edition of Windows available to the U.S. home market, aimed at the general consumer who doesn't have complex graphics or game-playing needs. It doesn't support the Aero interface. It includes Windows Firewall and Security Center, wireless networking, parental controls, home networking support, and all the basics that a home user would need.

In Europe, Windows Vista Home Basic N is offered, which is identical to Home Basic except it lacks Windows Media Player and related functionality. The same goes for the Business edition; in Europe it is Vista Business N, and it also lacks the Media Player.

• Windows Vista Home Premium: This edition supports everything the Home Basic edition does and adds Windows Media Center capabilities, such as DVD authoring and advanced photo management. It also includes some additional networking features, such as offline folders, PC to PC sync, and Tablet PC features.
• Windows Vista Business: This edition lacks some of the multimedia capabilities from Home Premium but adds business features such as the ability to connect to a domain-based network, remote desktop, encrypted file system, and support for non-Microsoft networking protocols such as NetWare.
• Windows Vista Enterprise: This is the same as Vista Business except it adds support tools useful in large networks such as Virtual PC, a multi-language user interface, and BitLocker disk encryption. It's available only via volume licensing to companies.
• Windows Vista Ultimate: This edition contains every available feature in all other editions, plus Windows Ultimate Extras (add-on features that have not yet been announced as of this writing).

For a side-by-side comparison of all Windows Vista editions, visit the Windows Vista Choose an Edition Web page.

Upgrade Versus Full Version

Most editions are available either in a full install version (for PCs with no previous version of Windows) or an upgrade edition. An upgrade edition requires that you already own Windows 2000 or Windows XP (and still have it installed on your PC or have the installation CD for it).

Buying an upgrade edition doesn't preclude doing a clean installation of Windows (as described in the next section). You can use the upgrade edition for a clean installation; however, you'll be prompted at some point in the setup process to insert a CD containing a valid previous version, for verification purposes.

Next, learn about the differences between new installation of Windows Vista and in-place upgrades.