Windows Vista Installation and Upgrading - What Are Windows Vista's Minimum Hardware Requirements?

SUMMARY: Explains the minimum RAM, CPU speed, hard drive space, and other hardware needed to run Windows Vista.

According to Microsoft's website, the following are the minimum requirements for running Windows Vista:

* 800 mhz+ processor
* 512 mb RAM
* DirectX9-capable graphics card

A "Premium Ready PC", capable of running more of Windows Vista's features, should have at least:

* 1 ghz 32 or 64-bit processor
* 1 gb RAM
* "Support for DirectX 9 graphics with a WDDM driver, 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum), Pixel Shader 2.0 and 32 bits per pixel."
* 40 gb HD space with 15 GB free
* DVD-ROM drive
* Audio output capability
* Internet access

Various Windows Vista features may require other hardware, and additional RAM and a higher-end graphics card are recommended for a smoother Windows Aero user experience. Also, Microsoft has released a Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor that can help you determine whether or not your computer can be upgraded.