Windows XP uses icons (graphical pictures) to represent applications and computer components. It includes a taskbar for switching between open windows and applications.
Unlike previous versions of Windows, it allows more than one person to use the same computer. Each user has a unique computer account that tracks personal settings, documents, and email messages.
System Requirements
The client version of Microsoft Windows superseding Windows 2000 and preceding Windows Vista, XP offered improved support for gaming, digital photography, instant messaging and wireless networking. A personal firewall and peer-to-peer network sharing functionality were also included in the operating system.
XP’s user interface received an overhaul that made the windows and buttons look more cartoon-like, with drop shadows and anti-aliased icons. This visual style was not well-received by some consumers, who compared the new look to a Fisher-Price toy.
The GDI+ technology in XP allows applications to draw text and graphics to the screen, but it also interferes with screen magnifiers and other accessibility tools. Until Microsoft fixes this, XP will be difficult for visually impaired users to use.
XP requires a processor with at least 233 MHz and 64 megabytes of RAM to run. A minimum of 1.5 gigabytes of free hard drive space and a display resolution of 800 by 600 pixels are recommended for optimal performance.
Installation
When the installation begins, it will prompt you to select the drive and partition on which Windows XP should install. Typically, this is the logical partition on your hard disk. You can change this after the installation completes (see Chapter 5, “Working with Partitions”). The next screen will ask for the names of the users who will use Windows XP. Setup will create accounts for these users and install all the necessary files. If you’re installing a workstation in a corporate environment, choose Yes, make this computer a member of the domain to enable network-based software and hardware management.
Next, the installation process will start copying files from the Windows XP CD to your hard drive. Depending on the size of your drive and the speed of your computer, this can take several minutes. Once the file copy is complete, the computer will restart. At this point, you should be able to see the desktop and My Documents folder.
Security
To mitigate the risk, IT professionals should take a variety of actions. One recommended step is to disable simple file sharing, which makes it harder for attackers to spread malicious software from USB drives and CDs.
Other steps include ensuring antivirus, firewalls, software distribution clients and browsers are up to date. It’s also important to remove third-party software that introduces new attack vectors into a system. This includes PDF viewers and Java, which can be easily infected by a simple Trojan download.
The CTU researchers say that XP users need to log in using standard non-admin accounts or employ privilege management software to cut down on threats, because most malware runs with the logged-in user. They also recommend activating XP’s Data Execution Protection to reduce memory attacks. It’s worth noting that Microsoft will not disclose any new vulnerabilities that affect XP to those who don’t pay for Custom Support, so keeping an eye on community chat boards is critical.
Maintenance
Like any other operating system, XP requires routine maintenance such as cleaning up temporary files and updating drivers. This prevents performance degradation over time and can also help protect the computer from malware and viruses.
XP includes a variety of diagnostic and troubleshooting tools that allow an administrator to troubleshoot problems. These are accessible from the Start menu or by selecting the Help and Support option.
If you are using a networked computer, choose the option to register this computer with Microsoft and follow the on-screen instructions. Otherwise, select No, I don’t want to register this computer now and continue.