Most new computers come with CD/DVD burning devices. When you purchase a computer that has a burner with it, it should include the software you need to use it. If it is not installed, proceed with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Vista has built-in CD burning software. Since it is limited in functionality, many people choose to purchase third party CD burning software such as Nero. In such instances, you can disable this functionality in Vista.

You can do so using the steps outlined below:

1. Click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, and click Windows Explorer.
2. Right click your CD burner within Windows Explorer and click Properties.
3. From the Properties window, select the Recording tab.
4. Clear the check box beside the option to Enable CD recording on this drive.
5. Click OK.

DVD Player Application
One piece of software that Vista does not ship with is DVD player application. You can view some video files in Windows Media Player but if you want to watch a DVD on your computer, you need third party software. When you purchase a computer with a DVD player, software should already be installed. If not, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the installing the software.

Office Suite
After performing a clean installation of Vista, there will be no Microsoft Office software installed. Most people want some type of office suite installed. If you plan to install an existing version of Microsoft Office, verify that it is supported on Vista.

The following Microsoft Office versions are support:

• Microsoft Office XP
• Microsoft Office 2003
• Microsoft Office 2007

To install a version of Microsoft Office you need the CD, a valid product key and access to a CD-ROM drive. The CD drive can be local or a shared CD-ROM drive on a network. The installation processes various slightly between Office versions.

If you have the CD readily available, insert it into the CD-ROM drive. If the autoplay feature is enabled, the installation wizard automatically appears to walk you through the rest of process.

[tags]Windows, Vista, OS, Microsoft, install, installation, Windows upgrade[/tags]