14 DAY TRIAL // While Windows Vista represents an indisputable evolution from Windows XP, it also comes with features that are either a downside or situated on the borderline between functionality and annoyance. UAC, DEP, and Driver Support are at the top of my list.
I've put the User Account Control at the top. It is a great addition in terms of security. I wouldn't make without it in Windows Vista if I were you. And the fact of the matter is that admin approval mode makes a world of difference, allowing you to perform elevation of privileges when needed. Is it annoying? Yes it is. But I grind my teeth and work away, and I try not to let it get to me. Because of my workflow, UAC is a bigger annoyance than for an average user that rarely installs/uninstalls/tests/modifies settings etc.
DEP is next. Data Execution Prevention (DEP) in Windows Vista is enabled by default. Its role is to block the execution of any data content. Generally, DEP is designed to safeguard a system against exploits that overrun system or application data buffers. The problem with this? Well nothing that bad, except that DEP also blocks legitimate applications. This happens mainly with programs that generate code dynamically. Fortunately, DEP can be configured to ignore certain programs and services.
And last, but not least, Windows Vista driver support. Microsoft has made it look that they have gone overboard by making available some 30,000 drivers in Windows Vista. But the truth of the matter is that it is not enough. Additionally, users will find that there is an array of applications that they used on XP and that do not deliver support for Windows Vista.