About Windows XP Operating System

Windows XP is a computer operating system designed and released by Microsoft. It is another in a long line of operating systems. Its predecessors were Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000 and Windows ME. It was succeeded by Windows Vista, which, in turn, will be succeeded by the upcoming Windows 7. It is designed to give even novice users complete control over what their computers are capable of doing.

System Requirements

To successfully run Windows XP on your computer, your machine must meet the following minimum system requirements. You must have at least a 233MHz processor, 64MB of RAM, a monitor that supports at least a resolution of 800 pixels by 600 pixels, 1.5GB of free space on your hard drive, and a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive.

Service Packs

From time to time Microsoft will release what is called a "service pack" for Windows XP. A service pack is a major system update, providing the operating system with new features as well as fixing any bugs or glitches that have been discovered. Presently there are three service packs for Windows XP, and no more are planned.

Support

As Windows XP is no longer Microsoft's most current operating system, it is only provided with limited support from Microsoft. Microsoft no longer supports Windows XP with no service packs installed, and has not since September 2004. As of April 2014, Microsoft will no longer update any version of Windows XP or provide any security patches or fixes.

Criticisms

A major criticism of Windows XP comes when dealing with security. Windows XP is vulnerable to viruses, spyware, malware and other kinds of malicious software. Periodically Microsoft will update XP to fix any security vulnerabilities, but more viruses are written for Windows operating systems every day. This is why it is so important to have anti-virus software installed on your computer if you plan on accessing the Internet.

Versions

Windows XP shipped in two distinct versions: Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional. Professional was designed for people who would be using XP at businesses and for users who would be considered advanced. Windows XP Home Edition was designed for basic computer users and lacked any of the advanced features found in the Professional version.

References

• Microsoft