Microsoft Windows Vista
After a number of delays, Microsoft has finally unveiled the successor to Windows XP. Windows Vista, Microsoft's brand new operating system, has been launched and will be available to download from the internet - the first operating system that has been distributed to customers in this way. As well as being available as a download in the Windows Marketplace, Vista will also be on the shelves of online and retail stores.

Customers will also be able to upgrade their version of Windows Vista on the internet once they have purchased it. There will be four editions of Vista - Business, Home Basic, Home Premium and Ultimate - and if customers decide they want to change the version they have they will be able to use the Windows Anytime Upgrade service.

Vista Business will cost £290, while the Home Basic, Home Premium and Ultimate editions will cost £180, £220 and £370 respectively. Prices for downloads have not yet been announced.

Windows Defender
Microsoft have recently released new spyware protection software under the name of Windows Defender.

Windows Defender includes several enhancements that are based on customer input. Changes include, but are not limited to:

• Improved detection and removal
• Real-Time Protection
• Definition updates
• Redesigned and simplified user interface

Windows Defender can now be run by all the users who use a particular computer, whether they have administrator-level privileges or not. This helps ensure that all the people who use a computer are able to benefit from the protection features offered by Windows Defender.

Windows Defender will work only with Windows 2000 (Service Pack 4 or later) or Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or later).

Internet Explorer 7
Internet users can now download Internet Explorer 7 browser. The latest version has a built-in search box, enhanced security, and new features such as tabbed browsing. Internet Explorer 7 has a new-look design-wise, and features a new toolbar which Microsoft says should make it easier to add web sites to your Favourites, search the web, clear your history, and access the other tools you use most. The new version also alerts you about potential phishing sites that are designed to steal your personal information. According to the company, when you are on the net, Internet Explorer 7 automatically monitors your computer to protect you from unwanted and malicious programs that can be installed on your system as a result of surfing the web.