In order to functionally activate Microsoft Windows Vista OS versions using the Windows Vista activation wizard, you need to do the following:

 
Click on the Start button found on the leftmost bottom portion of the desktop
Click on the Computer option from the selection
Then click on Properties from the list of options
Click on the Click Here option in order to functionally activate your Windows Vista OS version (please be advised that in order to do this, you would need to have administrator permission privileges)
Afterwards, you can key in the password or the confirmation code if you are asked to provide your machine with proof of administrator admission privileges. Then, you can choose from the list of options provided by the wizard in order to continue with the activation process. This means you can activate your Microsoft Windows Vista-operated machine online or via phone. But if you choose to activate your Microsoft Windows Vista-based machine online, your OS will only be activated 3 days right after your first attempt of logging on the World Wide Web.

After activating your Microsoft Windows Vista-operated machine, you should keep in mind to set up the security configuration settings of your machine before connecting it to the internet and browsing through the World Wide Web. This will help you prevent malicious software programs from penetrating your system. With this, you should also install a good anti-viral software program which comes bundled with a wide array of security tools. These security tools should include Spyware/Adware/Malware/Virus detection and removal functions together with firewall security options. You should also make it a point to schedule your anti-viral program to regularly update its virus definitions since this would help you avoid new malicious software programs from penetrating your machine.