How can I know if my current computer and software are compatible with Windows Vista?

To help you determine whether your computer can run Windows Vista and whether the applications you're currently using will work under Vista, Microsoft has created the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor. This utility will analyze your system and give you a report about possible compatibility problems with your hardware and software. For more information and to download the Advisor, visit Microsoft's Get Windows Vista web site.

Microsoft has announced that it will provide security patches and updates to Windows XP until April 2014.

Also see:

• Known issues with Windows Vista at IU
• Why has my antivirus client stopped working after I did an upgrade install of Windows Vista?