Windows Vista

Application compatibility is one the most important challenges faced by organizations when deploying new operating systems. At Microsoft, it's very important we provide the information and resources you need to identify and resolve application compatibility challenges. With the release of Windows Vista, Microsoft provides the tools and resources to reduce the time, cost, and complexity of addressing application compatibility.

Windows Vista was designed and engineered with security, reliability, and application compatibility at the forefront of the development process. As engineers developed Windows Vista, teams used automation to test over 1,900 applications from over 150 ISVs against daily builds. This has increased compatibility in Windows Vista as developers could fix problems as they occurred rather than later in the development process.

Microsoft has provided new features in Windows Vista such as the Program Compatibility Assistant that will automatically make recommended compatibility changes you allow to make the compatibility experience more seamless.

Microsoft is also releasing an Application Compatibility Toolkit 5.0 in alignment with the release of Windows Vista, allowing enterprises to immediately begin identifying application compatibility issues for their Windows Vista deployment in their current environment. To complement the toolkit, Microsoft has created an Online Compatibility Exchange (accessed via a button within the Microsoft Application Compatibility Toolkit 5.0) that offers access to the test results from Microsoft, ISVs and IT pros.

Microsoft has been actively working with top ISVs through the Readiness Labs and MSDN to make sure their apps work. Microsoft has introduced both Works with Windows Vista and Certified for Windows Vista logo programs to provide resources and information.
Microsoft has partnered with (and provided training to) several deep vendors who can be brought in house to handle all aspects of application compatibility mitigation, as part of an initiative known as the Application Compatibility Factory.

In addition, Microsoft has increased its commitment to Virtual Computing, making Virtual PC a free download, and bringing in SoftGrid.