Windows Vista Home Basic is the edition of Windows for just the essential home computing needs, such as using e-mail, browsing the Internet, or viewing photos. While it lacks many of the features of Home Premium, it is easier and safer than Windows XP.

Unsure about whether to upgrade? Click here for the Microsoft Upgrade Advisor.

Check which version of Windows Vista is right for you. Click here to compare.

Easily find everything on your PC and the Internet Instantly find information on your computer-including documents, e-mails, photos, and even music files-with Instant Search, which is integrated throughout Windows Vista.

Stay up to date See the information you care about instantly with Windows Sidebar and gadgets, which bring real-time information, like weather and news, directly to your desktop.

Relive a lifetime of memories With Windows Photo Gallery, it's easier to download photos from your digital camera and then organize, edit, view, and share them with family and friends.

Defend yourself Windows Defender helps automatically safeguard your PC against pop-ups, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware and other unwanted software.

Defend your kids With Parental Controls, you can manage the rules for your children's computer use. You can set time limits and manage their access to the web and to PC games.

Processor	Required: 800 MHz or faster processor Recommended: 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
Memory	512 MB of system memory
Hard Disk	20 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space
Drive	Required: CD-ROM drive Recommended: DVD-ROM drive
Display	Required: Support for Super VGA graphics Recommended: Support for DirectX 9 graphics and 32 MB of graphics memory
Sound Card	Audio output recommended
Internet Connection	Some features require an Internet connection; access to and use of the Internet may require payment of a separate fee to an Internet service provider; local and long distance telephone call charges may apply
Other	Actual requirements and product functionality may vary based on your system configuration. Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor can help you determine which features and edition of Windows Vista will run on your computer.