Microsoft Vista Support Statement

The Information Technology Unit (ITU) provides support for Microsoft’s newest operating system (OS) Vista.
 
Research and testing has shown that Microsoft’s Vista operates well in most environments where the software applications used have been compatible. For example, Vista operated with no problems when used in live “open” labs with University supported software. The test was so successful the computers were left in the labs for daily use and have now been in a production environment for over a year. Banner is the only major application tested where the vendor does not guarantee the application will work with Vista.  However, in most cases there are workarounds for Banner access while using Vista.

Since Microsoft’s Windows XP Pro continues to meet the academic and business needs of Mason, and Microsoft is providing extended support for XP Pro until August 2014, there are no plans on deploying Vista on a University wide basis.
 
If Windows XP Pro does not meet your requirements, the ITU recommends the purchase of Microsoft Vista Enterprise or Ultimate. They offer enhanced features and are compatible with the Mason technical environment.

The following links provide more information on Vista’s current compatibility with various software applications.
http://itusupport.gmu.edu/Certified_Vista_Software_List.pdf
http://itusupport.gmu.edu/vista_non_compat.asp
https://winqual.microsoft.com/member/softwarelogo/certifiedlist.aspx (Internet Explorer Only)
https://winqual.microsoft.com/member/softwarelogo/workswithlist.aspx (Internet Explorer Only)

Current Purchasing Recommendation 
Purchase new computers with the Windows XP Pro (SP3) operating system and configured for using Vista. See the recommended hardware requirements for new computer purchases at http://itusupport.gmu.edu/dept_desk.asp#config.

                                               Last Revised: April 3, 2009