A+: Installation of Vista

The Windows Vista installation is much easier and more simplified than earlier versions of Windows. After the installation has begun, you should see a GUI-based window.

When you run a default installation of Windows Vista from the distribution DVD, you are prompted to provide the following information during the process, in this order:

    Step 1. Language to Install, Time and Currency Format, and Keyboard or Input Method. At this time there is also an option to learn more about the installation by clicking the What to Know Before Installing Windows link. Once you have input your settings for Step 1, you must click Next, and then on the next screen click Install Now.

    Step 2. Product key and whether to automatically activate Windows (can be delayed up to 30 days).

    Step 3. Accept the license terms.

    Step 4. Select whether you are doing an Upgrade or a Custom install, which includes a clean installation. If you are installing to a computer with no operating system, the Upgrade option will be disabled.

    Step 5. Where to install Windows Vista. From here you can select the drive, and administer partitions as you see fit. If necessary, you can also load third-party drivers for the media (hard drive) to be installed to.

The system automatically copies files from the DVD, expands those files, installs features and updates, and completes the installation. The system might have to restart several times during this installation process (for example, after it installs updates and after it completes the installation), but you can let the Vista installation work its magic until you get to the next step:

    Step 6. Select a user name, password, and picture.

    Step 7. Select a computer name and desktop background.

    Step 8. Configure Windows Update to Use Recommended Settings, Install Important Updates Only, or Ask Me Later. (Use Recommended Settings will automatically enable Windows Updates, Windows Defender, updated drivers, and the phishing filter for Internet Explorer.)

    Step 9. Set the time zone, time and date.

    Step 10. Set the computer’s location: either home, work, or public location.

Now it’s time to start Windows. Vista will check the computer’s performance (which might take a while), and then ask you for your password (if you opted to use one), before you can access Vista. After you have logged on with the proper password the Welcome Center window should appear and you can continue with initial tasks such as connecting to the Internet or transferring files and settings.

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