Difference Between Microsoft Windows XP & XP Professional

A computer using Windows.

A few differences exist between Windows XP, usually considered the Home version, and XP Professional. Which one you use or consider for an upgrade depends on how you plan to use your computer.

Processors

Windows XP provides support for 32-bit machines running single-core processors (like the Celeron or Athlon) while XP Professional supports 32-bit and 64-bit and multi-core processors.

Networking

Peer-to-peer networking and sharing is limited to five computers with Windows XP. Windows XP Professional gives you Workgroup and Peer-to-peer networking for more than five computers and also allows you to join a domain.

Backup

XP Professional includes a comprehensive backup and restore program for your computer. Even though XP is without that program initially, you can purchase the function separately from Microsoft.

Remote Access

You have the ability to use Remote Desktop Access when you have XP Professional installed. Windows XP Home does not have this capability.

Security

XP Home supports basic security on one machine if there is more than one user. However, if you have a multi-machine network with XP Professional, you get enhanced security no matter how many users on on each machine.

References

• Annoyances.org: List of Differences Between XPs
• Windows Networking: Tutorial on XP Differences