Security, power and performance, applied graphics and user interface improvements, wireless networking, desktop search, usability updates, new performance monitoring and diagnostics, and an upgraded bevy of onboard applications such as Internet Explorer 7+ and Windows Defender are some of the main areas where Microsoft has beefed up Vista. Enterprise features, such as expanded group policies, whole-drive encryption and hardware-agnostic Windows imaging, are especially welcome.

Some of the readers of Computerworld's Visual Tour: 20 Things You Won't Like About Windows Vista came away with the mistaken impression I thought all was lost for Microsoft concerning Windows Vista. That was never the case. I've tested and reviewed every beta, CTP and alpha of Windows Vista going back to 2003, and the vast majority of that commentary has been positive. There's a lot to like about Windows Vista.

1. Security

It's about security

It's easy for Linux and Mac aficionados to be smug about the security of their systems. The Mac OS and Linux were better created for security from the ground up, and they also don't live with a flashing neon bull's-eye on their backs. And while it's clear that Microsoft waited several years too long to get religion about security, it's also apparent from any rational examination of Vista that the software giant has rectified that error. Here are some highlights of protections the new operating system will offer: