Windows XP Pro continues to be one of Microsoft's more durable operating systems among home and business users, despite Microsoft's release of Vista in 2007. Introduced with Windows XP Home edition in 2001, Windows XP Pro's integration of features from earlier systems, along with an improved user interface and increased stability and efficiency, immediately scored points with business clients and power-users.
In addition to options included in the Windows Home XP edition, Windows XP Pro operating system offers the following: an access control, which allows specific user permissions; an encryption file system for better information security; a remote desktop server; and centralized administration. The software also offers other features specifically geared toward business users. However, as with many of Microsoft's products, critics have found security bugs for which Microsoft has created quick-fix "patches." Still many Vista users are "rolling back" to their former XP systems as they find XP more hassle-free. Here are some things you want to do before purchasing an Windows XP Pro operating system:
1. Get detailed information about Windows XP Pro to make an informed purchase.
2. Search online or locally for Windows XP Pro suppliers.
3. Find sites where you can get Windows XP Professional for sale.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Research online to find information about Windows XP Pro
Make sure that Windows XP Pro is compatible with your computer. Find spec requirements as well as a breakdown of each feature to see how the system meets your needs. It isn't cost-effective to spend on features you will never need. Also find reviews and customer ratings to give you an idea of the possible problems you might encounter.
I recommend: Start with
Microsoft's official web page on Windows XP Pro operating system. Another jumping point is
Wikipedia, which provides specifics about Windows XP Pro, including pertinent links and articles about the operating system. Also,
CNet provides a review plus both editor and user ratings.
ActiveWin provides a great chapter-by-chapter breakdown on Windows XP Pro.
Find Windows XP Pro providers to give you more purchase options
Of course, you don't have to purchase Windows XP Pro directly from Microsoft. You can find plenty of Windows XP Pro suppliers online. The major computer software stores often have online deals on software. You can buy Windows XP Pro online or from a local brick-and-mortar computer store.
I recommend: You can find many Windows XP products at the major computer retailers, including
CompUSA and
Circuit City. Both also have brick-and-mortar stores in many cities, as do other Windows XP Pro providers.
Go online to find Windows XP Pro for sale
Although many major online sites offer Windows XP Professional for sale, you can always find it cheaper somewhere else. The thing to do is comparison shop.
I recommend: NexTag provides comparison sales on Windows XP Pro as does
WinBuyer.
Shopping.MSN.com also has Windows XP Pro for sale.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Search online for manuals and guides on Windows XP Pro. You'll find tutorials on everything from installation, customization and configuration. You can also find downloadable guides as well.
The official source of Windows XP Pro is the Windows XP Pro page at Business.com
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