Windows Vista UAC Compatibility Evaluator

The User Account Control Compatibility Evaluator is one of the most impressive features of the Windows Vista Application Compatibility Toolkit 5.0 Release Candidate. "You can deploy a data collection package (DCP) that does more than just collect inventory - it actively shims system functions looking for known issues that could trigger compatibility issues after a migration to Windows Vista," explained Chris Jackson, a Senior Consultant with Microsoft Services.

One limitation of the User Account Control Compatibility Evaluator is the fact that it detects applications that are run exclusively elevated when the process itself is elevated. This is an aspect that might change prior to the final release of the Windows Vista Application Compatibility Toolkit.

The fact that UAC CE searches a limited subset of compatibility issues addresses wide deployment scenarios for real users. However, running the evaluator during the testing process produces feedback and behavior data but also technical details that will reflect actual migration to Vista issues.

"If you choose to take this approach, and you want to gather UAC data, then you will want to either consider one of the more diagnostic tools or else run the application elevated (but don't forget test runs with it non-elevated)," added Jackson.

Here are a few details about the new Vista Compatibility Evaluators:
- Devices support
- Developer and Tester Tools - IE Test Tool, Standard User Analyzer, Setup Analysis
- Compatibility Administrator
- Support for upgrade
- Changes to UIA reporting
- Filtering and Custom Reports.