Planning for, testing, deploying and managing Microsoft's latest operating system is no easy task and this is why the company has made available four new tools to streamline Windows Vista migration. The Data Encryption Toolkit for Mobile PCs, Windows Vista Desktop Optimization Pack, the Windows Vista Enterprise Edition Virtual Hard Disk and the updated Application Compatibility Factory service are all integer parts of Microsoft's efforts to support transitions to Windows Vista.

"Businesses typically take a cautious approach to deploying a new operating system release," said Al Gillen, research vice president, System Software at IDC. "That's true with Windows Vista as well, but we're seeing more businesses begin the testing and planning process, which will lead to more companies investing the time and effort to roll out the new operating system across their organizations."

In order to lend a helping hand with the complex process that involves transitioning to Windows Vista from a previous Windows platform, Microsoft has made available for download a free copy of Windows Vista Enterprise, the edition of the operating system reserver for the company's Software Assurance customers via volume licensing. Users can download and deploy Vista Enterprise, and test drive the operating system for a total of 30 days.

The Redmond Company is also delivering the guidance and tools necessary to manage encryption on mobile machines. Corporate user will also be able to find out how to centralize the configuration and deployment process of encryption settings on portable PCs.

"Windows Vista-ready components of the Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack for Software Assurance. The SoftGrid Application Virtualization, Advanced Group Policy Management, Asset Inventory Service and Desktop Error Monitoring components of MDOP will be available to businesses on July 1. Microsoft's ACF connects enterprise customers with partners that deliver high-volume, low-cost application compatibility and remediation services for line-of-business applications," the Redmond Company stated.