Windows Vista no longer receives security updates

Support for this version has ended (April 11, 2017). These guides can still help you set up or repair a computer, but where you can, keep it off the internet for banking and email, and plan a move to a version that is still supported.

Guides for Windows Vista

3 guides. Start with the one that matches what you want to do.

  • How-to

    Windows Vista: how to install it from a DVD

    Reinstall Windows Vista from your own DVD, with a Custom (advanced) install, then check it worked and what to do if Setup stalls.

    Windows Vista

    45 minIntermediate

  • How-to

    Windows Vista: how to install software and drivers

    Install programs and drivers on Windows Vista safely: answer the permission prompt, run as administrator, use compatibility settings, and undo changes.

    Windows Vista

    12 minBeginner

  • Fix

    Windows Vista: common problems and fixes

    Safe fixes for a slow Windows Vista PC or one that broke after a change, plus guidance on when repair is not enough for an unsupported system.

    Windows Vista

    15 minIntermediate

Other Windows versions