What Are the Functions of Microsoft Windows Vista?

Windows Vista was the first operating system to fully support the Microsoft DirectX 10 functionality. Microsoft DirectX 10 allows newer video games to run with at a higher video quality. However, you must have a video card that supports DirectX 10 to take advantage of this functionality. Windows Vista will automatically run in DirectX 9 mode if the video card does not support DirectX 10.

Windows Vista has a new functionality called "Parental Controls" that was not present in Windows XP. This function allows you to control what type of games, websites and programs that your child has access to. You can also use this function to restrict the amount of time that your child can use the computer each day.

Microsoft released an edition of Windows XP called Windows XP Media Center Edition that was designed primarily for home entertainment purposes. Windows Vista retains that functionality in a program called Windows Media Center, which allows you to play movies, music and TV right from within the Windows Media Center user interface. It also features several other functions, such as the ability to view photos and play games.

Windows Vista comes with the Backup and Restore Center, which you can use to back up any important files on your computer. This function also gives you the option of restoring any backed up files. The Backup and Restore Center offers your computer additional security by including the option to create system restore points as well as the ability to restore the operating system.

Windows Vista has two programs that you can use to view and edit photos. The Windows Picture and Fax Viewer has the capability of opening photos in a number of file formats, while the Windows Photo Gallery offers several options to edit and save photos. These programs come built-in with every edition of Windows Vista.