Microsoft on Monday released what appears to be a near-complete version of its next operating system Windows Vista.
The latest version has more features for improved security, enhanced performance and mobility and was released as its third Community Technology Preview. This test version will be made available to about 500,000 developers on technology sites and the Microsoft Development Network (MSDN).
The CTP version offers a near complete glimpse of another interface like the ubiquitous Windows O/S which is shipped with 90 percent of the world's computers. Developers have reacted positively to the CTP version.
The CTP version Vista includes features, many security related, that deserve a second look:
Windows Defender- an update to Windows AntiSpyware, with enhanced detection and removal capabilities. It offers protection against spyware, rootkits and other threats. It includes a simplified interface.
BitLocker – protects data that are at risk from being stolen or lost; ideal for laptops. Its Trusted Platform Module (TPM) protects digital certificates and encryption keys besides passwords. A laptop using this feature, would not reveal sensitive data when stolen.
Device Driver Locking – System administrators will be able to block installation of external hard drives, USB flash drives and removable storage devices. This feature is certain to be welcomed by large corporations who fear theft of their sensitive data.
Parental controls – a more effective way to control usage of computers and the Internet by children. It can generate reports of websites visited, restrict certain websites and set time limits to usage.
Improved Firewall – includes both inbound and outbound firewall filtering
Internet Explorer 7 – this feature was included in the previous CTP version but this time round it provides added security for international domain names. It can detect phoney URLs making it effective defense against phising.
Additional features include an updated Windows Media Player, a Windows Media Center and a caching algorithm called Superfetch. This feature is designed for a faster computing experience as it loads all the frequently used software into memory for immediate access. It is now updated to reach into and include content from external storage devices.
The company has certainly chosen the smarter option of a CTP compared to releasing beta versions. Through a CTP, the company has better feedback which helps in the development of the product. Microsoft hopes to deliver the fourth and last CTP before the month-end so that it can be showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next month.
