Windows Vista recommendations and support
Workgroup Technology Support is currently examining Windows Vista for use here at the University of Toronto. We are focusing on core University application compatibility.

What is Windows Vista?

Windows Vista is the latest computer operating system released by Microsoft. It is the next version of the Windows XP OS line.

Recommendation for Windows Vista

Windows Vista is not currently recommended because some of our core applications do not work reliably in Vista.

  • AMS (SAP) application does not work with IE7 (the Windows Vista browser) and does not make the necessary changes to the Windows Vista firewall. We are currently working with AMS on a AMS installer which will be compatible with IE7 and the Windows Vista firewall.
  • Cognos data mining application does not work with IE7 (the Windows Vista browser). We are currently waiting for Cognos to produce a patch or a new version which will be compatible with IE7.

    • What Operating System should I chose if I am purchasing a new computer

    We recommend that you purchase Windows Vista Business edition if you are purchasing a new computer and that you “downgrade” the operating system to Windows XP SP2 until our core business applications work on Windows Vista. At that time, you can upgrade or rebuild your computer with Windows Vista as you will already have a license to operate the computer with Windows Vista.

    Note: you may be able to purchase a Windows Vista Business edition license but have Dell provide the computer already configured with Windows XP SP2. If this choice is offered, we recommend you select it.