In addition to a new look and feel, windows xp introduced many new features. It prioritized users’ needs and made it easier to plug in devices.
To get started with Windows XP, make sure your computer meets the system requirements. You’ll also need a valid product key. This can be found on a sticker printed on the package or on your computer.
1. Easy to use
Windows XP was easy to use when it first came out and stayed that way for a long time. It was Microsoft’s most popular operating system during its run from 2001 to 2007 selling over 500 million copies.
While it is no longer supported by Microsoft, 8% of the world’s computers still run this version of Windows. Many software applications are still compatible with windows xp and it is a good choice for those with older hardware.
To install the operating system, you will need a computer with at least 1.5 gigabytes of free disk space and a CD or DVD-ROM drive. You will also need a mouse and keyboard to use as input devices.
After inserting the Windows XP CD-ROM, you need to turn on your computer. Once it has started up, look for the key to enter the BIOS setup. It will vary from PC to PC, but it usually is F2, F12, or Delete. Then, you need to select the option to boot from CD.
2. Easy to install
From 2001 to 2007 Windows XP was the most popular operating system sold individually and pre-installed on computers. During that time it sold more than 500 million copies. Installation of XP is relatively easy as long as the computer meets the minimum system requirements. These include free disk space of 1.5 gigabytes, a video adapter that supports at least 800 by 600 pixels and monitor, a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive, a keyboard and mouse.
During the installation process you will be asked to choose an administrator account and set the computer name. You will also be prompted to enter your Product Key, which is required for completing the install.
It is important to note that the entire Windows XP installation process will erase any data currently on the computer. It is recommended to backup all critical information before beginning the installation. Once the installation is complete, the computer will restart. At this point you will be presented with the Windows XP desktop and given a guided tour of the new OS.
3. Easy to customize
Windows XP provides a number of ways to customize the look of the operating system. The taskbar and window borders are a shimmering, backlit blue; the redesigned icons have a 3-D shadowed look. The new Microsoft Word button consolidates the icon for six programs into a single button, with a pop-up menu that lets you choose which document to open.
Windows XP includes support for ClearType sub-pixel font anti-aliasing that makes onscreen text appear smoother, although this slows down display performance. Windows XP supports the latest hardware standards including IrDA, USB and 1394. It also allows users to save their customizations as a theme.
The Start menu has been overhauled, adding a two-column layout that lists and pins frequently used applications. It also includes a column that lists and displays recently opened documents. XP’s new Control Panel is divided into categories and presents a list of tasks and related Control Panel icons. However, some of these new features may be difficult for experienced users to master.
4. Easy to upgrade
With Microsoft announcing that support for Windows XP is ending in April 2014, it’s time to start thinking about upgrading. Upgrading a computer to a new operating system doesn’t have to be complicated, but it can be a significant time commitment. The process involves reformatting the hard drive and reinstalling applications.
The first step is to backup your data files, which can be done using the Windows Easy Transfer tool or Laplink PCmover Express. This is a good opportunity to clean up your hard drive by deleting temporary and obsolete files.
Next, run Microsoft’s Upgrade Advisor, available free from its Web site. This utility detects software incompatibilities and hardware issues that could cause problems with your XP install. It also calculates how much memory you need to run XP effectively. For higher-end computing environments, a 64-bit version of XP was created that can utilize the power of Intel IA-64 and AMD64 processors. This edition also supports a number of features, including Intel Hyper-Threading and remote desktop management.