The first thing you'll notice about Windows Vista Home Basic is how easy it is to find the programmes and files you're looking for. The instant search feature on the desktop searches all your documents, emails, photos and other files, and organises the results in the way you want. When paired with the built-in web search capability in Windows Internet Explorer 7, bundled with Windows Vista Home Basic, you'll spend less time hunting for the things you need and more time on the activities you care about.

With automated defences against malicious software and fraudulent websites, Windows Vista Home Basic enables you and your family to use your computer with greater confidence. In addition, parents can use built-in controls to help ensure their children's computer use is protected and appropriate.

Windows Vista Home Basic makes it easier than ever to set up your new PC, with features that easily transfer all your data and settings from your old PC to your new one. Furthermore, you can enjoy peace of mind for years to come with built-in technology that maintains your PC’s speed and reliability.

• 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
• 512 MB of system memory
• 20 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space
• Support for DirectX 9 graphics and 32 MB of graphics memory
• DVD-ROM drive
• Audio output
• Internet access (fees may apply)

• 800 MHz processor and 512 MB of system memory
• 20 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space
• Support for Super VGA graphics
• CD-ROM drive

If you buy software ‘off the shelf’, known as Full Packaged Product (FPP), Microsoft offers free "warranty" support to certain FPP customers through the Microsoft support hotline.

Any business looking to buy more than five licences should consider a Volume Licensing agreement. These two or three year agreements represent good value for money for business customers; there is a range of agreements available, catering for different types of organisations.