| Change/Feature | Details | Impact/Benefit |
| Compatibility Improvements | Expanded driver database on Windows Update; improved battery life for notebooks | More devices should work out of the box; mobile users will get more time between charges |
| Performance Improvements | Local and Network file copy operations have been retooled; better time estimation and faster time to completion for long transfers | Less frustration while waiting for sluggish transfer to complete; better perceived responsiveness from the OS |
| Kernel Tweaks | Vista now shares same kernel version as Server 2008; Kernel Patch Protection modified in x64 version | Service Packs will now be released in lockstep with Windows Server; third-party anti-malware vendors can now hack the Windows kernel to install their own hooks |
| Miscellaneous | Expanded BitLocker support; WGA (Windows Genuine Advantage) anti-piracy less draconian | Can encrypt more drive types and configurations; WGA errors less likely to trigger total lockout |
Read Randall Kennedy's guide to the Vista and XP service packs.
Posted by Doug Dineley on March 20, 2008 03:00 AM
