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Chapter 1

Installing Windows Vista Client

Selecting an Edition of Windows Vista

The next stage in the installation process, shown in Figure 1-6, involves selecting the edition

of Windows Vista that you will install. The Windows Vista installation media ships with all

editions of Windows Vista; however, you can activate only the version of Windows Vista that

you have purchased. Each unique 25-character product key is tied to a specific edition of

Windows Vista. If you install an edition that does not match your 25-character product key,

you will either have to reinstall from scratch after the 30-day activation period has expired

or purchase the edition that you have installed. If you purchase a new edition, you will

receive a new unique 25-character product key.

Figure 1-6

Select the edition of Windows Vista that you have purchased

For example, if you install Windows Vista Ultimate but have purchased Windows Vista Busi-

ness or Home Basic, you will need to reinstall from scratch or purchase a license for Ultimate.

There is an exception to this rule. If you purchase Ultimate but accidentally install another edi-

tion, you will be able to perform an in-place upgrade to Ultimate. When you are sure, select the

I Have Selected The Edition Of Windows That I Purchased check box, and click Next.

Performing a Custom Installation

The option to upgrade is presented only if you run the Windows Vista installation routine

from an existing Windows XP or Windows Vista installation, and the computer meets the

upgrade requirements. If you have booted off the Windows Vista installation media, only the

Custom option is available. Upgrading Windows Vista is covered in Chapter 2, “Windows

Vista Upgrades and Migrations,” Lesson 1, “Upgrading and Migrating to Windows Vista.”

This lesson concentrates on the custom install option.