How to Choose Windows XP Home vs Professional Version

Generally, Windows XP Home Edition is geared toward small business and home use, and Professional is considered the best choice for corporate users. Despite the marketing descriptions, many of the features are the same on both versions. Professional offers more networking and security features that may be attractive to home users who want to build a network.

Instructions

1. Consider the costs of each product. Windows XP Professional costs more than Windows XP Home Edition initially, but it will cost a little more to upgrade to Professional from Home later. You can't get a refund for downgrading from the Professional to the Home Edition.

2. Compare the usability and reliability. Both editions offer the same interface and design. Both feature system restore and rollback options. Both rely on the Win2000 code engine, which makes computers more reliable than previous versions of Windows.

3. Look at features that are appropriate for home use. Home Edition features the ability to quickly switch between users and allows all users to have their own settings. Professional Edition also supports multiple users, but it is not as easy to move between users. Home Edition also includes easy to use movie and photo publishing software that is appropriate for family use.

4. Decide whether you need networking features. XP Professional Edition offers more networking administration tools, supports roaming profiles and allows users to log on to a domain.

5. Evaluate the portability features of Professional Edition. For laptop users, Professional Edition allows you to save files offline and synchronize with a network later. It also makes it easy to switch between networks.

6. Think about whether you will ever have the need to connect to a computer at work or in another remote location. XP Professional includes Remote Desktop, which allows you to connect to a remote computer and use it as if it were right in front of you.

7. Determine your need for advanced security features. Windows XP Professional includes user level access control and file encryption features. The Home Edition has more limited security features.