Microsoft has added Windows Vista to its virtual shelves. Together with Windows Anytime Upgrade and Windows Vista Family Discount, the Redmond Company has announced a new method for customers to buy Windows Vista. Via Windows Marketplace, users will be able to purchase online the preferred edition of Windows Vista and download it directly to their desktop.

"With the consumer launch of Windows Vista so close, we're excited to announce three new ways to make the purchase and upgrade experience easier than ever," said Brad Brooks, general manager of Windows Client Marketing at Microsoft, speaking of Windows Anytime Upgrade, Windows Vista Family Discount and Windows Marketplace. "These new programs give our customers more flexibility and choice to ensure they get the edition that's right for them."

Following the general availability of Windows Vista on January 30, 2007, downloads of the operating system will be accessible via Windows Marketplace. "As of the 30th, you will be able to visit Windows Marketplace to electronically buy Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office release via direct download. Windows Marketplace uses a technology called digital locker, which securely stores both the software itself and its related license keys. Digital locker also has intelligence to know when a download has been interrupted so that it can resume automatically once the connection is reinstated," explained Nick White, Microsoft Program Manager.

On the virtual shelves of Windows Marketplace, Windows Vista will be joined by the 2007 Microsoft Office System. The website will offer Windows Vista Business, Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Ultimate, Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007, Microsoft Office Professional 2007 and Microsoft Office Standard 2007.

Windows Marketplace is designed to be the largest online destination for direct download of Windows Vista. "Windows Vista editions offered through Windows Marketplace are available in English only, in either 32-bit or 64-bit versions. Windows Marketplace visitors also can find a wide variety of Windows-compatible hardware and software, including products carrying the Certified for Windows Vista logo, which are tested to ensure superior reliability and quality when running on Windows Vista," revealed Microsoft.