Peripherals forum: Vista Ready vs. Certified for Vista Printers?

"certified" means the product has been tested by microsoft and you can get drivers via windows update. "ready" means they have drivers for vista but you'll need to download them from the manufacturer and they may not be whql certified. either one is fine as long as you get your drivers from windows update or the manufacturer's site.

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.

Why not just buy a new printer that works with vista. I have been using vista on one computer since day one and it works great. Plus new printers cost less. You can get a cheap cannon for $50.00.

And what do you do if the printer you already have is an expensive, high-volume high-quality printer? Throw it away and buy another expensive one to replace it?

Not sure why but cant get this printer to work. I have updated the drivers, and still nothing.... any suggestions??