For higher end computing environments, a 64-bit version of windows xp was created that used all the capabilities of your processor to add extra memory and computing power. These editions also have better comparability with 9x programs.
The minimum system requirements for running XP are 1.5 gigabytes of disk space, a CD-ROM drive, and a monitor with a display resolution of 800 by 600 pixels.
Windows XP Professional
Windows XP Professional was designed for business environments and included features not available in the home version of XP. For example, it supports multiple microprocessors whereas the Home Edition only allows one. It also provides a centralized update management system and enables the user to connect to a remote computer over the Internet.
This version also includes features like Instant Messaging, a new Internet Explorer and a completely revised interface. The UI is much more intuitive and is not as confusing to use. It has a new Task-oriented menu that presents the user with a list of tasks to complete rather than giving them choices.
The minimum requirements for a system running XP Professional are a 233 megahertz processor and 128 megabytes of RAM (Memory). You’ll also need a CD-ROM or DVD drive, 1.5 gigabytes of free disk space and an 800 by 600 Super VGA video card and monitor. Microsoft recommends a faster processor and more memory than the minimum requirements.
Windows XP Home
As its name implies, XP Home Edition is the consumer-oriented version of XP. It is similar to XP Professional, but with several key differences.
For example, a Home Edition system does not support dynamic disks; only the standard Simple Disk is supported. In addition, a Home Edition computer cannot be part of an Active Directory domain, so its users can’t take advantage of the Group Policy features that help control application, network and operating system access.
Also, a Home Edition computer does not include Microsoft’s Automated System Recovery tool, so you can’t use it to restore the system after a catastrophic error like a hard drive failure. Likewise, a Home Edition computer does not contain the Encrypting File System, which can protect files from unauthorized use over a local network, but not over the Internet.
Two specialized versions of XP Home, called Windows XP Subscription Edition and Windows XP Prepaid Edition, were made available for hardware manufacturers that wanted to offer subscription-based or “pay as you go”-based models for selling computers. These editions have special limitations such as a limit on the number of applications that can run simultaneously, a maximum screen resolution of 1024×768, and a 120 GB limit for total disk space.
Windows XP Media Center
Windows XP Media Center is Microsoft’s attempt to make the PC a home-entertainment hub. It brings together a variety of digital-media functions — TV, music, and photos — into one package that can be managed remotely using a remote control.
The OS also supports a variety of tuner cards for watching live and recording television. The program guide, provided by Tribune Media Services and EPG Inc (Korea), offers 14 days of TV listings to help users find shows they want to watch or record.
Unlike most other Windows versions the XP Media Center Edition doesn’t require you to join a domain during the installation process. This makes it ideal for use in a home, though some people have used it in the workplace for their own personal purposes. The XP Media Center Edition uses a new mechanism for drawing graphics, which may impact the use of screen readers and screen magnifiers. You will need a minimum of a 1.6 gigahertz processor and 2 gigabytes of RAM to run the software.
Windows XP Tablet PC
Windows XP Tablet PC Edition is the version of the operating system designed specifically for pen-sensitive tablet computers. It also includes a speech recognition feature that lets users dictate data or issue operating system and application commands without using the keyboard.
The XP Tablet OS was the first to introduce digital ink, a revolutionary technology that is now used on tablets and phones alike. Its introduction helped ignite and innovate a new class of device that has revolutionized education, business, frontline work and our personal lives.
When sourcing a tablet, buyers should consider the type and volume of data they need to store. Higher storage capacities allow for more applications to be installed, increasing the device’s utility and flexibility for specific operational needs. Additionally, buyers should consider the connectivity needs of their operations. Wi-Fi, Ethernet and cellular connectivity options should all be evaluated to ensure that the chosen platform meets the requirements of its operational environment.