Microsoft Windows is the world's most popular family of desktop operating systems. It has also been the computing world's biggest target, with frequent attacks on its Web browser, e-mail client, and other features. So Microsoft has issued a constant stream of updates to repair breaches in Windows' security. Despite these efforts, Microsoft has endured frequent criticism, much of it deserved, from users irritated by the continuing battle to secure systems and frustrated by ongoing losses of productivity, personal information, and privacy.

Microsoft hopes to turn the tide with Vista, the latest Windows upgrade, which debuted for consumers Jan. 29. Windows Vista contains Microsoft's most comprehensive collection of desktop-security features. But many of the safeguards are real departures from previous practice, and part of the method for benefiting from Vista's security features is knowing how they work.

At BusinessWeek.

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