Peripherals: Vista Ready vs. Certified for Vista Printers?

Windows Vista Hardware Compatibility List

I learned the hard way about HP and Vista.

Go to: http://winqual.microsoft.com/HCL/Default.aspx

Microsoft places hardware into one of four categories:

Certified for Windows (quoted from MS) - The "Certified for Windows Vista" logo is a compatibility designation for applications and devices that have passed a rigorous testing program on computers that are running Windows Vista. The technical requirements for this designation target four core areas: reliability, security, compatibility with Windows Vista and future operating systems, and installation and removal.

Works with Windows Vista (quoted from MS) - The "Works with Windows Vista" logo is a compatibility designation that is designed to encourage Windows Vista compatibility for the current generation of Windows-based applications. To receive this designation, software companies test their applications to make sure that the applications meet the program's guidelines.


Compatible (quoted from MS) - have not been through logo program testing, but their manufacturers report that they're compatible with Windows Vista. You'll have to take each manufacturer's word on that.

Unknown - Self-explanatory

If at all possible, I stick with Certified. If I must, I'll use "Works with Windows Vista." I strongly suggest that you do not take a vendor's word that something is "Compatible" unless you like rolling the dice.