Before you install Windows Vista or upgrade your current edition make sure it meets the minimum system requirements. Keep in mind that the recommended system requirements vary depending upon which edition you choose. Below you will find the minimum system requirements necessary to upgrade your current PC. If you still need help, you can download the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor, a tool that automatically checks your current system.

Minimum system requirements needed to run Vista Home Premium, Business or Ultimate

• 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor 1.0GHz or faster
• 1GB system memory
• Support for DirectX 9 graphics with a WDDM driver, 128MB graphics memory (minimum), Pixel Shader 2.0 and 32 bits per pixel
• 40GB hard drive capacity with 15GB free space
• DVD-ROM drive (internal or external)
• Audio-output capability
• Internet-access capability

Minimum system requirements needed to run Vista Home Basic

• A modern processor (at least 800MHz)
• 512MB of system memory
• A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable

Need hardware upgrades for your PC? Get started now.

If you need upgrades for installation of Windows Vista or just want some PC extras, you'll find what you need right here.

To ensure that your PC is ready for the edition of Windows Vista you want to install, you can download the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor. It's a useful tool from Microsoft that lets you know whether your current system is ready and can help you figure out exactly what you need.