Free Windows Vista downloads from Tigerware have left users with computer glitches.
Although Tigerware recently added more downloads and updates to correct the problems, some students say they still are having issues. Problems come from the interface security system, which screens every movement users make, and makes simple processes slower than normal.
Other programs, such as iTunes, have compatibility problems that can corrupt the user’s iPod data.
Windows Vista, in its various forms, was made widely available in January to University students via the Tigerware Web site on PAWS.
The program has been downloaded approximately 33,400 thousand times in the past five months, according to Tigerware.
Stephen Martinez, economics senior, experienced problems associated with the interface. “I downloaded the platform in April this year and experienced a few problems,” Martinez said. Vista had compatibility issues associated with programs Martinez frequently uses, such as Adobe Photoshop and CD burning software. “Vista advised me that there were multiple incompatibilities with drivers and programs, however there weren’t noticeable problems with the majority of programs on my computer,” he said. Some students have been turning to Tigerware with software problems,said Sheri Thompson, IT Planning and Communications Officer. “We recommended that those who wish to upgrade [to Vista] back up all their files, uninstall Windows XP, and then install Vista,” she said. Tigerware is still working on fixes for those who did not follow the advice. According to Brandon Johnson, an IT Analyst in Information Technology Services at the University, Tigerware is working on several fixes for Vista, focusing recently on AutoPatcher, which is a program that automatically installs updates for software for users with Vista.
This program is currently available for download on Tigerware. Tigerware also will release a new version of the interface, Vista SP1, which, according to Johnson, “will include all the hot fixes for Vista up to the point of release and also include a new Media Center for Vista Home Premium and Ultimate.”
This upgrade is scheduled for release at the end of the year. Although Martinez downloaded the Vista software from Tigerware and it was incompatible with programs on his computer, he separately downloaded updates and new programs. “The only real aggravation I had with Vista was the infamous Block/Allow feature, which shows up for basically every action you perform,” he said. “I know it enhances the security of the computer but I didn’t like it.”
—Contact Wallace Levy at [email protected]