When the original installed Vista was released your required to install non certified vista software with administrative rights and also check off administrative rights to operated.
If your a solo dude using the computer you could turn off UAC but if not then you have to manually configure each program to work.
SP1 fix alot of this and makes it easier for administrators to just install and use the program without the headaches.
Best way to learn to control vista is link to the guide below.
http://www.tweakguides.com/TGTC.html