Windows XP

Updated: 12/10/2023 by Computer Hope
Windows XP

Often abbreviated as XP, Microsoft Windows XP was code-named Whistler and is short for Windows eXPerience. Windows XP is an operating system released on October 25, 2001, by Microsoft and designed to help bridge the gap between Windows 9x/Me and Windows NT/2000. The Windows XP upgrade was available for Windows 98, Me, and 2000 users. The two primary versions of Windows XP are Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional.

Home Edition - Full or upgrade and only 32-bit.
Professional - Full or upgrade and 32-bit or 64-bit.

Windows XP is also available in Windows XP N and Windows XP Home Edition N, which are versions released by Microsoft as part of an agreement with Europe's competition commissioner. In these versions of Windows XP, the user can choose their media player and download and install it on their computer.

Note

Windows XP was featured as a top term of 2002.

New Windows XP features

Windows XP includes various new features not found in previous versions of Microsoft Windows. Below is a listing of some new features.

  • New interface - A completely new look and ability to change the look.
  • Updates - A new feature that automatically obtains updates from the Internet.
  • Internet Explorer 6 - Includes Internet Explorer 6 and new IM (instant message).
  • Multilingual support - Added support for different languages.
  • Increase reliability compared to previous versions of Microsoft Windows.

Windows XP system requirements

233 MHz or faster processor.
64 MB RAM minimum (128 MB recommended).
1.5 GB hard drive space.
CD-ROM (compact disc read-only memory) or DVD (digital versatile disc) drive.
SVGA (super video graphics array) video card.
100% compatible Microsoft keyboard and mouse.
Standard sound card for sound capability.
Upgrade requires Windows 98, 98 SE, or Me.

What Windows came before Windows XP?

For the end user, Windows Me came before Windows XP.

What version of Windows came after Windows XP?

For the end user, Microsoft Windows Vista came after Windows XP.

Computer abbreviations, Operating system terms, XP, XP2