A new desktop operating system is now available for small business consumers: Windows Vista from Microsoft. Until recently, this operating system was only available to large enterprise clients. Small businesses will be pleased to discover the many new capabilities that Windows Vista has to offer; here are some examples of the reasons to upgrade your businesses' operating system:

Search capabilities are greatly improved. Just type in a word to search documents, emails, folders, and applications, regardless of where they are kept. No more need to search through layers of menus to find what you're looking for. The most widely-used features are at your fingertips - the simplified user interface. Additionally, the tabbed windows in IE 7.0 can help you to navigate between websites.

To help in the fight against malware, spyware, and unwanted software, Windows Defender is built in. Unauthorized connection with other PCs is made impossible by an improved built in firewall, preventing the spread of malware viruses. User Account Controls help balance the need of your users, locking down capabilities of those who need less privilege and allowing power users to access what they need to be most productive. Parental-type controls can also be used to control access to inappropriate sites on the Web, in conjunction with Group Policies. BitLocker Drive Encryption protects your data in the cae of PC loss or theft; it is available in Enterprise or Ultimate Edition.

With Windows Vista, better PC, PDA and mobile phone synchronization is possible with Windows SyncCenter. Additionally, simple remote access and wireless network capabilities reduce the amount of time spent getting connected from the road. Better power management features help extend battery life and overall performance.

Store file versions automatically using Shadow Copy. Windows Backup Center lets you choose key files to backup, where to put them, and the frequency. Retrieving data is fast and simple. Just retrieve an earlier file or document version to make changes easily.

Share information on an ad-hoc basis with Windows Meeting Space. You can begin working with new contractors or vendors without waiting until they have access to the network; just show them the files you want them to see.

The integrated tool suite allows quick and easy deployment. Migrate information and settings over from an old computer to a new one with Windows Easy Transfer Wizard. Save time by creating hardware-agnostic images instead of creating a different version for each type of computer hardware you own.

The imaging and deployment tools available to administrators can cut the cost of deploying a PC with Windows Vista in half. In addition, new features in deployment, security, user controls, collaboration and desktop productivity make greater productivity possible. A planned approach to upgrades is necessary, however, just as with any major change of operating system. It will be important to consider application compatibility, hardware readiness, migration and deployment challenges in advance. Also, training the users to use the upgraded system effectively is another important consideration in order to make the most of the new features and offerings of Windows Vista.