Microsoft has released a document on some new network diagnostics/troubleshooting tools and methodologies included in Vista. They say:
With Windows Vista, Microsoft introduces two new tools designed to make diagnosing network problems easier: the Network System Icon and the Network Diagnostics Framework (NDF). With these tools, users can troubleshoot and resolve common network connectivity issues—such as Internet connectivity, file sharing, wireless networking, and the like—themselves, potentially reducing support costs.
So "users can troubleshoot and resolve common … issues". Hmm. As an administrator, I hated "have a go heros". They caused more damage than the original problem. If there’s a problem I wanted Helpdesk to know about it. That way if they or my server team spotted a trend then we could nail the actual cause of the problem … and disembowel the Superman wannabe.
These tools may prove handy for home users and for IT staff, though.