FACTOID # 90: Russia has almost twice as many judges and magistrates as the United States. Meanwhile, the United States has 8 times as much crime.
 
 Home   Encyclopedia   Statistics   Countries A-Z   Flags   Maps   Education   Forum   FAQ   About 
 
WHAT'S NEW
RECENT ARTICLES
More Recent Articles »
 

SEARCH ALL

FACTS & STATISTICS    Advanced view

Search encyclopedia, statistics and forums:

 

 

(* = Graphable)

 

 


Encyclopedia > Windows XP
Windows XP
(Part of the Microsoft Windows family)
Screenshot

Screenshot of Windows XP Service Pack 3
Developer
Microsoft
Web site: Windows XP: Homepage
Release information
Release date: October 25, 2001 info
Current version:  5.1.2600.5512 Service Pack 3 (x86 SP3)
5.2.3790.070321-2337 Service Pack 2 (x64 SP2), April 21, 2008 info
Source model: Closed source, Shared source
License: MS-EULA
Kernel type: Hybrid kernel
Platform support: x86, x86-64, IA-64
Support status
Mainstream support (only with Service Pack 2 and 3)[1]
Further reading

Windows XP is a line of operating systems developed by Microsoft for use on personal computers, including home and business desktops, notebook computers, and media centers. The name "XP" stands for eXPerience.[2] It was codenamed "Whistler", after Whistler, British Columbia, as many Microsoft employees skied at the Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort during its development.[3] Windows XP is the successor to both Windows 2000 Professional and Windows Me, and is the first consumer-oriented operating system produced by Microsoft to be built on the Windows NT kernel (version 5.1) and architecture. Windows XP was first released on October 25, 2001, and over 400 million copies were in use in January 2006, according to an estimate in that month by an IDC analyst.[4] It is succeeded by Windows Vista, which was released to volume license customers on November 8, 2006, and worldwide to the general public on January 30, 2007. Image File history File links Microsoft_Windows_XP_Logo. ... Windows redirects here. ... is the 298th day of the year (299th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the year. ... is the 111th day of the year (112th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... The text below is generated by a template, which has been proposed for deletion. ... Shared source is Microsoft’s framework for sharing computer program source code with individuals and organizations. ... A software license is a legal agreement which may take the form of a proprietary or gratuitous license as well as a memorandum of contract between a producer and a user of computer software. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... A software license is a type of proprietary or gratiuitious license as well as a memorandum of contract between a producer and a user of computer software — sometimes called an End User License Agreement (EULA) — that specifies the perimeters of the permission granted by the owner to the user. ... A kernel connects the application software to the hardware of a computer. ... Graphical overview of a hybrid kernel Hybrid kernel is a kernel architecture based on combining aspects of microkernel and monolithic kernel architectures used in computer operating systems. ... In computing, a platform describes some sort of framework, either in hardware or software, which allows software to run. ... Intel Pentium 4 (Northwood version), one example out of a huge number of x86 implementations from Intel, AMD, and others. ... The AMD64 or x86-64 is a 64-bit processor architecture invented by AMD. It is a superset of the x86 architecture, which it natively supports. ... In computing, IA-64 (short for Intel Architecture-64) is a 64-bit processor architecture developed cooperatively by Intel Corporation and Hewlett-Packard (HP), and implemented in the Itanium and Itanium 2 processors. ... Windows XP has several features not in previous versions of Windows. ... Development of Windows XP started in 1999 in the form of Windows Neptune. ... Microsofts Windows XP operating system has received considerable amounts of criticism for various problems. ... An operating system (OS) is a software that manages computer resources and provides programmers with an interface used to access those resources. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... An ultraportable IBM X31 with 12 screen on an IBM T43 Thin & Light laptop with a 14 screen HCLs $329 miniature notebooks with 6 TFT touchscreens launched in India on January 29, 2008. ... This article is about media centers in general. ... Microsoft codenames are the codenames given by Microsoft to products it has in development, before these products are given the names by which they appear on store shelves. ... Location of Whistler within the Squamish-Lillooet District in British Columbia, Canada Coordinates: , Country Canada Province British Columbia Regional District Squamish-Lillooet Settled 1914 by Mrytle and Alex Philip Incorporated 1975 Government  - Mayor Ken Melamed  - Manager Bill Barratt  - Governing body Whistler Town Council  - MP Blair Wilson  - MLA Joan McIntyre Area... Motto: Splendor sine occasu (Latin: Splendour without diminishment) Capital Victoria Largest city Vancouver Official languages English (de facto) Government Lieutenant-Governor Steven Point Premier Gordon Campbell (BC Liberal) Federal representation in Canadian Parliament House seats 36 Senate seats 6 Confederation July 20, 1871 (6th province) Area  Ranked 5th Total 944... Cross-country skiing (skating style) in Einsiedeln, Switzerland. ... This article is about the ski resort. ... Windows 2000 (also referred to as Win2K) is a preemptive, interruptible, graphical and business-oriented operating system designed to work with either uniprocessor or symmetric multi-processor computers. ... Windows Millennium Edition, or Windows Me (IPA pronunciation: [miː], [É›m iː]), is a hybrid 16-bit/32-bit graphical operating system released on September 14, 2000 by Microsoft. ... Windows NT (New Technology) is a family of operating systems produced by Microsoft, the first version of which was released in July 1993. ... A kernel connects the application software to the hardware of a computer. ... The Windows NT operating system familys architecture consists of two layers (user mode and kernel mode), with many different modules within both of these layers. ... is the 298th day of the year (299th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the year. ... January 2006 : ← - January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December- → Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad accuses European nations of trying to complete the Holocaust by creating a Jewish camp Israel in the Middle East. ... IDC Analyze the Future-logo. ... Windows Vista (pronounced ) is a line of operating systems developed by Microsoft for use on personal computers, including home and business desktops, laptops, Tablet PCs, and media centers. ... is the 312th day of the year (313th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 30th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ...


The most common editions of the operating system are Windows XP Home Edition, which is targeted at home users, and Windows XP Professional, which has additional features such as support for Windows Server domains and two physical processors, and is targeted at power users and business clients. Windows XP Media Center Edition has additional multimedia features enhancing the ability to record and watch TV shows, view DVD movies, and listen to music. Windows XP Tablet PC Edition is designed to run ink-aware applications built using the Tablet PC platform. Two separate 64-bit versions of Windows XP were also released, Windows XP 64-bit Edition for IA-64 (Itanium) processors and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition for x86-64. A Windows Server domain or Windows NT Domain is a logical group of computers running versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system that share a central directory database. ... Symmetric multiprocessing, or SMP, is a multiprocessor computer architecture where two or more identical processors are connected to a single shared main memory. ... A typical Windows XP MCE 2005 Menu Windows XP Media Center Edition (MCE) is a version of Windows XP designed to serve as a home-entertainment hub. ... A typical Windows XP desktop. ... A Tablet PC is a notebook- or slate-shaped mobile computer. ... In computing, a 64-bit component is one in which data are processed or stored in 64-bit units (words). ... This does not cite any references or sources. ... In computing, IA-64 (short for Intel Architecture-64) is a 64-bit processor architecture developed cooperatively by Intel Corporation and Hewlett-Packard (HP), and implemented in the Itanium and Itanium 2 processors. ... 2007 Itanium logo Itanium is the brand name for 64-bit Intel microprocessors that implement the Intel Itanium architecture (formerly called IA-64). ... For the 64-bit Windows XP for Itanium systems, see Windows XP 64-bit Edition. ... The AMD64 or x86-64 is a 64-bit processor architecture invented by AMD. It is a superset of the x86 architecture, which it natively supports. ...


Windows XP is known for its improved stability and efficiency over the 9x versions of Microsoft Windows. It presents a significantly redesigned graphical user interface, a change Microsoft promoted as more user-friendly than previous versions of Windows. New software management capabilities were introduced to avoid the "DLL hell" that plagued older consumer-oriented 9x versions of Windows. It is also the first version of Windows to use product activation to combat software piracy, a restriction that did not sit well with some users and privacy advocates. Windows XP has also been criticized by some users for security vulnerabilities, tight integration of applications such as Internet Explorer 6 and Windows Media Player, and for aspects of its default user interface. Later versions with Service Pack 2, and Internet Explorer 7 addressed some of these concerns. Windows 9x is the family of Microsoft Windows operating systems that comprises the 32-bit, DOS-based Windows versions: Windows 95, Windows 98, and often also Windows Me. ... Windows redirects here. ... GUI redirects here. ... DLL hell is a colorful term given to any problem based on a difficulty in managing Dynamically Linked Libraries (DLLs) installed on a particular copy of an operating system. ... Product activation is a license validation procedure required by some proprietary computer software programs. ... The copyright infringement of software (also known as software piracy) refers to several practices when done without the permission of the copyright holder: Creating a copy and/or selling it. ... Internet Explorer, abbreviated IE or MSIE, is a proprietary web browser made by Microsoft and currently available as part of Microsoft Windows. ... Windows Internet Explorer 7, commonly abbreviated IE7, is a web browser released by Microsoft in late 2006 for Windows Vista, Windows XP and Windows Server 2003. ...

Contents

Editions

Main article: Windows XP editions
Diagram representing the main editions of Windows XP. It is based on the category of the edition (grey) and codebase (black arrow).
Diagram representing the main editions of Windows XP. It is based on the category of the edition (grey) and codebase (black arrow).

The two major editions are Windows XP Home Edition, designed for home users, and Windows XP Professional, designed for business and power-users. These releases were made available at retail outlets that sell computer software, and were pre-installed on computers sold by major computer manufacturers. As of mid-2008, both editions continue to be sold. A third edition, called Windows XP Media Center Edition was introduced in 2002 and was updated every year until 2006 to incorporate new digital media, broadcast television and Media Center Extender capabilities. Unlike the Home and Professional edition, it was never made available for retail purchase, and was typically either sold through OEM channels, or was pre-installed on computers that were typically marketed as "media center PCs". Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Media Extender is a general term describing extension devices that can bring media center capabilities to another television not connected to a central media center or other HTPC system. ... Original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, is a term that refers to containment-based re-branding, namely where one company uses a component of another company within its product, or sells the product of another company under its own brand. ...


Two different 64-bit editions were made available, one designed specifically for Itanium-based workstations, which was introduced in 2001 around the same time as the Home and Professional editions, but was discontinued a few years later when vendors of Itanium hardware stopped selling workstation-class machines due to low sales. The other, called Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, supports the x86-64 extension of the Intel IA-32 architecture. x86-64 is implemented by AMD as "AMD64", found in AMD's Opteron and Athlon 64 chips, and implemented by Intel as "Intel 64" (formerly known as IA-32e and EM64T), found in Intel's Pentium 4 and later chips. The Opteron is AMDs x86 server processor line, and was the first processor to implement the AMD64 instruction set architecture (known generically as x86-64). ... The Athlon 64 is an eighth-generation, AMD64 architecture microprocessor produced by AMD, released on September 23, 2003. ... The Pentium 4[1] brand refers to Intels single-core mainstream desktop and laptop CPUs introduced on November 20, 2000[2] (August 8, 2008 is the date of last shipments of Pentium 4s[3]). They had the 7th-generation architecture - called NetBurst - which was the companys first all...

Internet Explorer 6 running in Windows XP Tablet PC Edition.
Internet Explorer 6 running in Windows XP Tablet PC Edition.

Windows XP Tablet PC Edition was produced for a class of specially-designed notebook/laptop computers called tablet PCs. It is compatible with a pen-sensitive screen, supporting handwritten notes and portrait-oriented screens. A Tablet PC is a notebook- or slate-shaped mobile computer. ...


Windows XP Starter Edition is a lower-cost edition of Windows XP available in Thailand, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Russia, India, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Mexico, Ecuador, Uruguay and Venezuela. It is similar to Windows XP Home, but is limited to low-end hardware, can only run 3 programs at a time, and has some other features either removed or disabled by default. Each country's edition is also customized for that country, including desktop backgrounds of popular locations, localized help features for those who may not speak English, and other default settings designed for easier use than typical Windows XP installations. The Malaysian version, for example, contains a desktop background of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.[5] Software localization is a process of translating software user interfaces from one language to another and adapting it to suit a foreign culture. ... Nickname: Motto: Maju dan makmur (English: Progress and Prosper) Location in Malaysia Coordinates: , Country State Establishment 1857 Granted city status 1974 Government  - Mayor (Datuk Bandar) Datuk Abdul Hakim Borhan From 14 December 2006 Area  - Total 243. ...


Microsoft also released Windows XP Embedded, an edition for specific consumer electronics, set-top boxes, kiosks/ATMs, medical devices, arcade video games, point-of-sale terminals, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) components. In July 2006, Microsoft released Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs, a version of Windows XP Embedded which targets older machines (as early as the original Pentium). It is only available to Software Assurance customers. It is intended for corporate customers who would like to upgrade to Windows XP to take advantage of its security and management capabilities, but can't afford to purchase new hardware. Windows XP Embedded, or XPe, is the componentized version of Microsoft Windows XP Professional and the successor to Windows NT 4. ... A set-top box (STB) or set-top unit (STU) is a device that connects to a television and an external source of signal, turning the signal into content which is then displayed on the television screen. ... Outdoor ATMs may be free-standing, like this kiosk, or built into the side of banks or other buildings An automatic teller machine, automated teller machine (ATM) or cash machine is an electronic device that allows a banks customers to make cash withdrawals and check their account balances without... An overview of how VoIP works A typical analog telephone adapter for connecting an ordinary phone to a VoIP network Ciscos implementation of VoIP - IP Phone Voice over Internet Protocol, also called VoIP (pronounced voyp), IP Telephony, Internet telephony, Broadband telephony, Broadband Phone and Voice over Broadband is the... Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs (WinFLP) is an operating system from Microsoft, based on Windows XP, but optimized for older, less powerful hardware. ... Software Assurance (SA) is a Microsoft maintenance program aimed at business customers who use Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, and other server and desktop applications. ...


Editions for European and Korean markets

In March 2004, the European Commission fined Microsoft €497 million (US$603 million) and ordered the company to provide a version of Windows without Windows Media Player. The Commission concluded that Microsoft "broke European Union competition law by leveraging its near monopoly in the market for PC operating systems onto the markets for work group server operating systems and for media players". After unsuccessful appeals in 2004 and 2005, Microsoft reached an agreement with the Commission where it would release a court-compliant version, Windows XP Edition N. This version does not include the company's Windows Media Player but instead encourages users to pick and download their own media player. Microsoft wanted to call this version Reduced Media Edition, but EU regulators objected and suggested the Edition N name, with the N signifying "not with Media Player" for both Home and Professional editions of Windows XP. Due to the fact that it is sold at the same price as the version with Windows Media Player included, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo and Fujitsu Siemens have chosen not to stock the product. However, Dell did offer the operating system for a short time. Consumer interest has been low, with roughly 1,500 units shipped to OEMs, and no reported sales to consumers.[6][7][8][9] Berlaymont, the Commissions seat The European Commission (formally the Commission of the European Communities) is the executive branch of the European Union. ... The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. ... Windows Media Player (WMP) is a digital media player and media library application developed by Microsoft that is used for playing audio, video and viewing images on personal computers running the Microsoft Windows operating system, as well as on Pocket PC and Windows Mobile-based devices. ... This article is about the economic term. ... In information technology, a server is an application or device that performs services for connected clients as part of a client-server architecture. ... This article is about the corporation Dell, Inc. ... The Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE: HPQ), commonly known as HP, is a very large, global company headquartered in Palo Alto, California, United States. ... Lenovo Group Limited, formerly known as Legend Group Limited, is the largest personal computer manufacturer in the Peoples Republic of China, and as of 2004 is the eighth largest in the world. ... Fujitsu Siemens Computers is a European IT vendor, selling consumer and business computing products in the markets of Europe, the Middle East and Africa. ... Original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, is a term that refers to containment-based re-branding, namely where one company uses a component of another company within its product, or sells the product of another company under its own brand. ...


In December 2005, the Korean Fair Trade Commission ordered Microsoft to make available editions of Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 that do not contain Windows Media Player or Windows Messenger.[10] Like the European Commission decision, this decision was based on the grounds that Microsoft had abused its dominant position in the market to push other products onto consumers. Unlike that decision, however, Microsoft was also forced to withdraw the non-compliant versions of Windows from the South Korean market. This decision resulted in Microsoft's releasing "K" and "KN" variants of the Home and Professional editions in August 2006. The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) is South Koreas regulatory authority for economic competition. ... Windows Server 2003 (also referred to as Win2K3) is a server operating system produced by Microsoft. ... Windows Media Player (WMP) is a digital media player and media library application developed by Microsoft that is used for playing audio, video and viewing images on personal computers running the Microsoft Windows operating system, as well as on Pocket PC and Windows Mobile-based devices. ... Windows Messenger is a (now deprecated) proprietary instant messaging client included in Microsofts Windows XP operating system. ...


Languages

Windows XP is available in many different languages.[11] In addition, MUI packs and Language Interface Packs translating the user interface are also available for certain languages.[12][13] This article is about Multilingual User Interface. ... Microsoft Language Interface Pack (LIP) is a localized skin for emerging or minority language markets, such as Catalan, Lithuanian, Tamil and Thai. ...


New and updated features

Main article: Features new to Windows XP

Windows XP introduced several new features to the Windows line, including: Windows XP has several features not in previous versions of Windows. ...

  • Faster start-up and hibernation sequences
  • The ability to discard a newer device driver in favour of the previous one (known as driver rollback), should a driver upgrade not produce desirable results
  • A new, arguably more user-friendly interface, including the framework for developing themes for the desktop environment
  • Fast user switching, which allows a user to save the current state and open applications of their desktop and allow another user to log on without losing that information
  • The ClearType font rendering mechanism, which is designed to improve text readability on Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) and similar monitors
  • Remote Desktop functionality, which allows users to connect to a computer running Windows XP from across a network or the Internet and access their applications, files, printers, and devices
  • Support for most DSL modems and wireless network connections, as well as networking over FireWire, and Bluetooth.

Hibernate (also known ambiguously as sleep mode) is a feature seen in many operating systems where the contents of RAM is written to non-volatile storage, such as the hard disk (as either a file or on a separate partition) before powering off the system. ... A device driver, or software driver is a computer program allowing higher-level computer programs to interact with a computer hardware device. ... Fast user switching is a feature on some modern multi-user operating systems such as Windows XP, Windows Vista, Mac OS X, OpenSUSE (linux), Ubuntu (linux) and Fedora (linux)[1]. It allows users to switch between user accounts on a single PC without quitting applications and logging out. ... ClearType is a registered trademark for a technology developed by Microsoft Corporation to improve the appearance of text on certain types of computer display screens, especially flat-panel displays. ... LCD redirects here. ... DSL redirects here. ... IEEE 802. ... The 6-pin and 4-pin FireWire 400 Connectors The alternative ethernet-style cabling used by 1394c FireWire is Apple Inc. ... Bluetooth logo This article is about the electronic protocol named after Harald Bluetooth Gormson. ...

User interface

Windows XP themes
Default Blue (Luna)
Windows Classic
Royale Noir Theme, unreleased
Zune Theme
XP Royale
The new start menu design
in the "Royale" theme.
The "task grouping" feature introduced in Windows XP
The "task grouping" feature introduced in Windows XP

Windows XP features a new task-based graphical user interface. The Start menu and search capability were redesigned and many visual effects were added, including: Image File history File links Size of this preview: 800 × 600 pixelsFull resolution (1024 × 768 pixel, file size: 344 KB, MIME type: image/png) Bold text==Other Versions== Luna, Windows Classic, Silver, Olive Green, Royale, Royale Noir, and Zune. ... Image File history File links Size of this preview: 800 × 600 pixelsFull resolution (1024 × 768 pixel, file size: 88 KB, MIME type: image/png) Luna, Windows Classic, Silver, Olive Green, Royale, Royale Noir, and Zune. ... Image File history File links Size of this preview: 800 × 600 pixelsFull resolution (1024 × 768 pixel, file size: 377 KB, MIME type: image/png) Luna, Windows Classic, Silver, Olive Green, Royale, Royale Noir, and Zune. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Windows indexing service allows instant searching of PCs and corporate networks. ...

  • A translucent blue selection rectangle in Explorer
  • Drop shadows for icon labels on the desktop
  • Task-based sidebars in Explorer windows ("common tasks")
  • The ability to group the taskbar buttons of the windows of one application into one button
  • The ability to lock the taskbar and other toolbars to prevent accidental changes
  • The highlighting of recently added programs on the Start menu
  • Shadows under menus (Windows 2000 had shadows under mouse pointers, but not menus)

Windows XP analyzes the performance impact of visual effects and uses this to determine whether to enable them, so as to prevent the new functionality from consuming excessive additional processing overhead. Users can further customize these settings.[14] Some effects, such as alpha blending (transparency and fading), are handled entirely by many newer video cards. However, if the video card is not capable of hardware alpha blending, performance can be substantially hurt, and Microsoft recommends the feature should be turned off manually.[15] Windows XP adds the ability for Windows to use "Visual Styles" to change the user interface. However, visual styles must be cryptographically signed by Microsoft to run. Luna is the name of the new visual style that ships with Windows XP, and is enabled by default for machines with more than 64 MiB of video RAM. Luna refers only to one particular visual style, not to all of the new user interface features of Windows XP as a whole. Some users "patch" the uxtheme.dll file that restricts the ability to use visual styles, created by the general public or the user, on Windows XP. Alpha blending is a convex combination of two colors allowing for transparency effects in computer graphics. ... Luna is the codename for the default Windows XP theme. ... formula here</math></math></math></math></math>The three-letter acronym MIB may refer to any of several concepts: Management Information Base, a computing information repository used (for example) by Simple Network Management Protocol An abbreviation for mebibyte (MiB) or mebibit (Mib) Men in Black, a group of mysterious agents... RAM redirects here. ...


In addition to the included Windows XP themes, there is one previously unreleased theme with a dark blue taskbar and window bars similar to Windows Vista titled "Royale Noir" available for download, albeit unofficially.[16] Microsoft officially released a modified version of this theme as the "Zune" theme, to celebrate the launch of its Zune portable media player in November 2006. The differences are only visual with a black taskbar instead of dark blue and an orange start button (instead of very dark blue).[17] Additionally, the Media Center "Royale" theme, which was included in the Media Center editions, is also available to download for use on all Windows XP editions.[18] It also shipped with New Zealand editions of Windows XP Home Edition.[citation needed] Energy Blue desktop, featuring the new bliss wallpaper, the royale theme and the Media Player skin. ... Energy Blue desktop, featuring the new bliss wallpaper, the royale theme and the Media Player skin. ... Energy Blue desktop, featuring the new bliss wallpaper, the royale theme and the Media Player skin. ...


The default wallpaper, Bliss, is a BMP photograph of a landscape in the Napa Valley outside Napa, California,[19] with rolling green hills and a blue sky with stratocumulus and cirrus clouds. The image Bliss Bliss as seen in a typical Windows XP desktop. ... DIB redirects here. ... Napa Valley redirects here. ... Napa is the county seat of Napa County, California. ... A stratocumulus cloud belongs to a class characterized by large dark, rounded masses, usually in groups, lines, or waves, the individual elements being larger than those in altocumuli, and the whole being at a lower altitude, usually below 2,400 m (8,000 ft). ... This article is about cirrus clouds. ...


The Windows 2000 "classic" interface can be used instead if preferred. Several third party utilities exist that provide hundreds of different visual styles.


System requirements

Designed for Windows XP computer hardware logo
Designed for Windows XP computer hardware logo

System requirements for Windows XP Home and Professional editions as follows:[20] Image File history File links Size of this preview: 400 × 599 pixel Image in higher resolution (435 × 651 pixel, file size: 191 KB, MIME type: image/png)Designed for Windows XP PC logo This is a logo of an organization, item, or event, and is protected by copyright and/or... Image File history File links Size of this preview: 400 × 599 pixel Image in higher resolution (435 × 651 pixel, file size: 191 KB, MIME type: image/png)Designed for Windows XP PC logo This is a logo of an organization, item, or event, and is protected by copyright and/or... Computer hardware is the physical part of a computer, including the digital circuitry, as distinguished from the computer software that executes within the hardware. ...

Minimum Recommended
Processor 233 MHz 300 MHz or higher
Memory 64 MB RAM (may limit performance and some features)[21] 128 MB RAM or higher
Video adapter and monitor Super VGA (800 x 600) Super VGA (800 x 600) or higher resolution
Hard drive disk free space 1.5 GB 1.5 GB or higher
Drives CD-ROM drive or DVD drive CD-ROM drive or DVD drive
Devices Keyboard. Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device Keyboard. Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device
Others Sound card. Speakers or headphones Sound card. Speakers or headphones

In addition to the Windows XP system requirements, Service Pack 2 requires an additional 1.8 GB of free hard disk space during installation.[22] Service Pack 3 requires an additional 900 MB of free hard disk space during installation.[23] This article is about the SI unit of frequency. ... This article is about a unit of data. ... Look up RAM, Ram, ram in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... Super Video Graphics Array, almost always abbreviated to Super VGA or just SVGA is a broad term that covers a wide range of computer display standards. ... This article is about the unit of measurement. ... The CD-ROM drive can also be called a CD-ROM player. ... DVD is an optical disc storage media format that is used for playback of movies with high video and sound quality and for storing data. ... A 104-key PC US English QWERTY keyboard layout The Dvorak Simplified Keyboard layout A standard Hebrew keyboard showing both Hebrew and QWERTY. A computer keyboard is a peripheral partially modelled after the typewriter keyboard. ... Operating a mechanical mouse. ... A sound card (also known as an audio card) is a computer expansion card that can input and output sound under control of computer programs. ... A loudspeaker is a device which converts an electrical signal into sound. ... For other uses, see Headphones (disambiguation). ... This article is about the unit of measurement. ... This article is about a unit of data. ...


Service packs

Microsoft occasionally releases service packs for its Windows operating systems to fix problems and add features. Each service pack is a superset of all previous service packs and patches so that only the latest service pack needs to be installed, and also includes new revisions.[24] Older patches need not be removed before application of the most recent one. A Service Pack (more commonly, SP) is a software program that corrects known bugs, problems, or adds new features. ...


Service Pack 1

Set Program Access and Defaults was added in Service Pack 1.
Set Program Access and Defaults was added in Service Pack 1.

Service Pack 1 (SP1) for Windows XP was released on September 9, 2002. It contains post-RTM security fixes and hot-fixes, compatibility updates, optional .NET Framework support, enabling technologies for new devices such as Tablet PCs, and a new Windows Messenger 4.7 version. The most notable new features were USB 2.0 support, and a Set Program Access and Defaults utility that aimed at hiding various middleware products. Users can control the default application for activities such as web browsing and instant messaging, as well as hide access to some of Microsoft's bundled programs. This utility was first brought into the older Windows 2000 operating system with its Service Pack 3. The Microsoft Java Virtual Machine, which was not in the RTM version, appeared in this service pack.[25] Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (684x661, 47 KB) // The Set Program Access and Defaults control panel on Windows XP with Service Pack 2. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (684x661, 47 KB) // The Set Program Access and Defaults control panel on Windows XP with Service Pack 2. ... is the 252nd day of the year (253rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Also see: 2002 (number). ... Code complete redirects here. ... Microsoft . ... Windows Messenger is a (now deprecated) proprietary instant messaging client included in Microsofts Windows XP operating system. ... USB redirects here. ...


On February 3, 2003, Microsoft released Service Pack 1a (SP1a). This release removed Microsoft's Java virtual machine as a result of a lawsuit with Sun Microsystems.[26] is the 34th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2003 (MMIII) was a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... A Java Virtual Machine (JVM) is a set of computer software programs and data structures which implements a specific virtual machine model. ... Sun Microsystems, Inc. ...


Service Pack 2

Windows Security Center was added in Service Pack 2.
Windows Security Center was added in Service Pack 2.

Service Pack 2 (SP2) (codenamed "Springboard") was released on August 6, 2004 after several delays, with a special emphasis on security.[27] Unlike the previous service packs, SP2 adds new functionality to Windows XP, including an enhanced firewall, improved Wi-Fi support, such as WPA encryption compatibility, with a wizard utility, a pop-up ad blocker for Internet Explorer 6, and Bluetooth support. The new welcome screen during the kernel boot removes the subtitles "Professional", and "Home Edition" since Microsoft introduced new Windows XP editions prior to the release of SP2. The green loading bar in Home Edition was replaced with the standard blue bar, seen in Professional and other versions of Windows XP, making the line of operating systems resemble each other. Screenshot of Windows Security Center in Windows Vista. ... is the 218th day of the year (219th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Wi-Fi (IPA: ) is the common name for a popular wireless technology used in home networks, mobile phones, video games and more. ... Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) is a class of systems to secure wireless (Wi-Fi) computer networks. ... Dozens of pop-up ads covering a desktop. ...


Service Pack 2 added new security enhancements, which include a major revision to the included firewall that was renamed to Windows Firewall and is enabled by default, Data Execution Prevention that takes advantage of the NX bit that is incorporated into newer processors to stop some forms of buffer overflow attacks, and removal of raw socket support (which supposedly limits the damage done by zombie machines). Additionally, security-related improvements were made to e-mail and web browsing. Windows XP Service Pack 2 includes the Windows Security Center, which provides a general overview of security on the system, including the state of anti-virus software, Windows Update, and the new Windows Firewall. Third-party anti-virus and firewall applications can interface with the new Security Center.[28] Windows Firewall icon in Windows Vista Windows Firewall is a personal firewall, included with Microsofts Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Vista operating systems. ... DEP controls in Windows Vista DEP causing Windows XP to end a program Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a security feature included in modern Microsoft Windows operating systems that is intended to prevent an application or service from executing code from a non-executable memory region. ... The NX bit, which stands for No eXecute, is a technology used in CPUs to segregate areas of memory for use by either storage of processor instructions (or code) or for storage of data, a feature normally only found in Harvard architecture processors. ... Raw socket is a computer networking term used to describe a socket that allows access to packet headers on incoming and outgoing packets. ... This article is about computers that have been compromised by malware. ... Anti-virus software consists of computer programs that attempt to identify, thwart and eliminate computer viruses and other malicious software (malware). ...


On August 10, 2007, Microsoft announced a minor update to Service Pack 2, called Service Pack 2c (SP2c).[29] The update fixes the issue of the diminishing number of available product keys for Windows XP. This update will only be available to system builders from their distributors in Windows XP Professional and Windows XP Professional N operating systems. SP2c was released in September 2007.[30] is the 222nd day of the year (223rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ...


Service Pack 3

Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) build 5512 was released to manufacturing on April 21, 2008 and to the public via both the Microsoft Download Center and Windows Update on May 6, 2008.[31][32][33] Release to manufacturing (frequently abbreviated RTM) is a term used in software development. ... is the 111th day of the year (112th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... Windows Update version 5 through Netscape Browser 8. ... is the 126th day of the year (127th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ...


It will be automatically pushed out to Automatic Update users around June-July 2008.[31] A feature set overview which details new features available separately as standalone updates to Windows XP, as well as backported features from Windows Vista has been posted by Microsoft.[34] A total of 1,174 fixes have been included in SP3.[35] Service Pack 3 can be installed on systems with Internet Explorer versions 6 or 7, and Windows Media Player versions 9 and above.[36] Internet Explorer 7 is not included as part of SP3.[37] Backporting is the action of taking a certain software modification (patch) and applying it to an older version of the software that it was initially created for. ...


New features

Slipstreamed retail and OEM versions of Windows XP with SP3 can be installed and run with full functionality for 30 days without a product key, after which time the user will be prompted to enter a valid key and activate the installation. Volume license (VLK) versions still require entering a product key before beginning installation.[38] In networking, black holes refer to places in the network where incoming traffic is silently discarded (or dropped), without informing the source that the data did not reach its intended recipient. ... This article is about a computer networking device. ... Network Access Protection (NAP) is a Microsoft technology for controlling network access of a computer host based on the system health of the host, first utilized in Windows XP Service Pack 3, Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008. ... The Windows Imaging Component (WIC) is a Component Object Model based imaging codec framework introduced in Windows Vista for working with and processing digital images and image metadata. ... Local Group Policy Editor in Windows XP Media Center Edition Group policy is a feature of Microsoft Windows NT family of operating systems that provides centralized management and configuration of computers and remote users in an Active Directory environment. ... In computer slang, to slipstream is to integrate files from a hotfix or service pack into the original installation media. ...     Windows XP is a major revision of the Microsoft Windows operating system created for use on desktop and business computer systems. ...


Although service packs have, until now, been cumulative, installing SP3 on an existing installation of Windows XP requires that the computer must at least be running with Service Pack 1 installed.[23] However, it is possible to slipstream SP3 into the Windows XP setup files at any service pack level—including the original RTM version—without any errors or issues.[39] Slipstreaming SP3 into Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 is not supported.[40]


Service Pack 3 does contain updates to the operating system components of Windows XP Media Center Edition (MCE) and Windows XP Tablet PC Edition, and security updates for .NET Framework version 1.0, which is included in these Windows XP SKUs. However, it does not include update rollups for the Windows Media Center application in Windows XP MCE 2005.[41] SP3 also omits security updates for Windows Media Player 10, although the player is included in Windows XP MCE 2005.[41] The Address Bar DeskBand on the Taskbar is no longer included due to legal restrictions.[42] For other uses of the acronym SKU, go here. ... Windows Media Center is an application designed to serve as a home-entertainment hub. ...


Support lifecycle

Support for Windows XP without a service pack ended on September 30, 2004[43] and support for Windows XP Service Pack 1 and 1a ended on October 10, 2006.[44][45] is the 273rd day of the year (274th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 283rd day of the year (284th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...


Windows XP Service Pack 2 will be retired on July 13, 2010, almost six years after its general availability.[46] As per Microsoft's posted timetable, the company will stop general licensing of Windows XP to OEMs and terminate retail sales of the operating system on June 30, 2008, 17 months after the release of Windows Vista.[47][48] However, an exception was announced on April 3, 2008, for OEMs installing to subnotebooks or UMPCs either until June 30, 2010, or one year after the availability of the next client version of Windows, code-named Windows 7 — whichever date comes later.[49][50][51] is the 194th day of the year (195th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2010 (MMX) will be a common year starting on Friday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 181st day of the year (182nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 93rd day of the year (94th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... Sony VAIO model C1 subnotebook A subnotebook is a small and lightweight portable computer, with most of the features of a standard notebook computer but smaller. ... Leaked prototype photos of Origami Project. ... is the 181st day of the year (182nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2010 (MMX) will be a common year starting on Friday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Windows 7 (formerly codenamed Blackcomb, then Vienna) is a future version of Microsoft Windows. ...


On April 14, 2009, Windows XP will begin its "Extended Support" period that will last for 5 years until April 8, 2014.[52] is the 104th day of the year (105th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2009 (MMIX) will be a common year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2014 (MMXIV) will be a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ...


Common criticisms

Main article: Criticism of Windows XP

Microsofts Windows XP operating system has received considerable amounts of criticism for various problems. ...

Security issues

 This section does not cite any references or sources. (April 2008)
Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unverifiable material may be challenged and removed.

Windows XP has been criticized for its susceptibility to malware, viruses, trojan horses, and worms. Security issues are compounded by the fact that users of the Home edition, by default, receive an administrator account that provides unrestricted access to the underpinnings of the system. If the administrator's account is broken into, there is no limit to the control that can be asserted over the compromised PC. Image File history File links Question_book-3. ... A screenshot of a malicious website attempting to install spyware via an ActiveX Control in Internet Explorer 6 Malware is software designed to infiltrate or damage a computer system without the owners informed consent. ... A computer virus is a computer program that can copy itself and infect a computer without permission or knowledge of the user. ... In the context of computing and software, a Trojan horse, or simply trojan, is a piece of software which appears to perform a certain action but in fact performs another such as a computer virus. ... A computer worm is a self-replicating computer program. ...


Windows, with its large market share, has historically been a tempting target for virus creators. Security holes are often invisible until they are exploited, making preemptive action difficult. Microsoft has stated that the release of patches to fix security holes is often what causes the spread of exploits against those very same holes, as crackers figured out what problems the patches fixed, and then launch attacks against unpatched systems. Microsoft recommends that all systems have automatic updates turned on to prevent a system from being attacked by an unpatched bug, but some business IT departments need to test updates before deployment across systems to predict compatibility issues with custom software and infrastructure. This deployment turn-around time also lengthens the time that systems are left unsecure in the event of a released software exploit. It has been suggested that this article or section be merged into black hat. ...


User interface performance

Critics have claimed that the default Windows XP user interface (Luna) adds visual clutter and wastes screen space while offering no new functionality and running slower. Users can easily switch back to the Windows Classic theme.[53]


Integration of operating system features

In light of the United States v. Microsoft case which resulted in Microsoft being convicted for abusing its operating system monopoly to overwhelm competition in other markets, Windows XP has drawn fire for integrating user applications such as Windows Media Player and Windows Messenger into the operating system, as well as for its close ties to the Windows Live ID service. United States v. ... Windows Live ID (originally named . ...


Backward compatibility

Some users switching from Windows 9x to XP disliked its lack of DOS support. Although XP comes with the ability to run DOS programs in a virtual DOS machine, it still has trouble running many old DOS programs. This is largely due to the fact that it is a Windows NT system and does not use DOS as a base OS. Some DOS programs that cannot run natively on XP, notably programs that rely on direct access to hardware, can be run in third-party virtual machines, such as DOSBox. Windows 9x is the family of Microsoft Windows operating systems that comprises the 32-bit, DOS-based Windows versions: Windows 95, Windows 98, and often also Windows Me. ... This article is about the family of closely related operating systems for the IBM PC compatible platform. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... In computer science, a virtual machine is software that creates a virtualized environment between the computer platform and its operating system, so that the end user can operate software on an abstract machine. ... DOSBox is a program that emulates an Intel x86 computer running MS-DOS. It is intended for running DOS-based IBM PC compatible programs, especially computer games, which may not run properly on newer PCs and may not run at all on non-x86 hardware or operating systems (e. ...


Product activation and verification

Windows Genuine Advantage

Main article: Windows Genuine Advantage
A Windows Genuine Advantage notification indicating a failed validation.
A Windows Genuine Advantage notification indicating a failed validation.

While product activation and licensing servers are common for business and industrial software, Windows XP gave many casual computer users their first introduction to it, under the name "Windows Genuine Advantage" (WGA). The system was introduced by Microsoft to curb unauthorized distribution of Windows XP. Activation requires the computer or the user to activate with Microsoft within a certain amount of time in order to continue using the operating system. If the user's computer system ever changes — for example, if two or more relevant components of the computer itself are upgraded — Windows may refuse to run until the user reactivates with Microsoft. Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) is an anti-piracy system created by Microsoft that enforces Microsoft Windows online validation of the authenticity of several recent Microsoft operating systems when accessing several Microsoft Windows services, such as Windows Update, and downloading from the Microsoft Download Center. ... Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) is an anti-piracy system created by Microsoft that enforces Microsoft Windows online validation of the authenticity of several recent Microsoft operating systems when accessing several Microsoft Windows services, such as Windows Update, and downloading from the Microsoft Download Center. ...


WGA comprises two parts, an activation/verification system based in part upon the computer's hardware, and a user notification system. WGA for Windows was followed by verification systems for Internet Explorer 7, Windows Media Player 11, Windows Defender, and Microsoft Office 2007. Recently Microsoft removed the WGA verification from the installer for Internet Explorer 7 saying that the purpose of the change was to make IE7 available to all Windows users.[54][55] For other uses, see Hardware (disambiguation). ... Windows Media Player (WMP) is a proprietary software digital media player and media library application developed by Microsoft that is used for playing audio, video and images on personal computers running the Microsoft Windows operating system, as well as on Pocket PC and Windows Mobile-based devices. ... Windows Defender, previously known as Microsoft AntiSpyware, is a software product from Microsoft designed to prevent, remove and quarantine spyware on Microsofts Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Vista operating systems. ... Microsoft Office 2007 (officially called 2007 Microsoft Office system) is the most recent version of Microsofts productivity suite. ...


If the license key is judged not genuine, it displays a nag screen at regular intervals asking the user to buy a license from Microsoft.[56] In addition, the user's access to Microsoft Update is restricted to critical security updates, and as such, new versions of enhancements and other Microsoft products will no longer be able to be downloaded or installed. To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ...


Common criticisms of WGA have included its description as a "Critical Security Update", causing Automatic Updates to download it without user intervention, its behavior compared to spyware of "phoning home" to Microsoft every time the computer is connected to the Internet, the failure to inform end users what exactly WGA would do once installed (rectified by a 2006 update[57]), the failure to provide a proper uninstallation method during beta testing (users were given manual removal instructions that did not work with the final build[56]), and its sensitivity to hardware changes which cause repeated need for reactivation in the hands of some developers. A large number of toolbars, some added by spyware, overwhelm an Internet Explorer session. ... Phoning home is usually surreptitious communication between applications or hardware installed at end user sites and their manufacturers or developers. ...


Strictly speaking, neither the download nor the install of the Notifications is mandatory; the user can change their Automatic Update settings to allow them to choose what updates may be downloaded for installation. If the update is already downloaded, the user can choose not to accept the supplemental EULA provided for the Notifications. In both cases, the user can also request that the update not be presented again. Newer Critical Security Updates may still be installed with the update hidden. However this setting will only have effect on the existing version of Notifications, so it can appear again as a new version.


As of 2006, Microsoft is currently involved in a class action lawsuit brought forth in California, on grounds that it violated the spyware laws in the state with its Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications program.[58] 2006 is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... In law, a class action is an equitable procedural device used in litigation for determining the rights of and remedies, if any, for large numbers of people whose cases involve common questions of law and fact. ...


Product key testing

In addition to activation, Windows XP service packs will refuse to install on Windows XP systems with product keys known to be widely used in unauthorized installations. These product keys are intended to be unique to each boxed (or bundled) copy of Windows XP and are included with the product documentation, but a number of product keys were posted on the Internet and were then used for a large number of unauthorized installations. The service packs contain a list of these keys and will not update copies of Windows XP that use them. A CD key is a specific software-based key for a certain program or a computer game. ...


Microsoft developed a new key verification engine for Windows XP Service Pack 2 that could detect illicit keys, even those that had never been used before. After an outcry from security consultants who feared that denying security updates to illegal installations of Windows XP would have wide-ranging consequences even for legal owners, Microsoft elected to disable the new key verification engine. Service Pack 2 only checks for the same small list of commonly used keys as Service Pack 1. This means that while Service Pack 2 will not install on copies of Windows XP which use the older set of copied keys, those who use keys which have been posted more recently may be able to update their systems. This article describes how security can be achieved through design and engineering. ...


Currently Microsoft provides security updates to Windows XP without validating if it is legal. For all non-security updates, a user must have a verified copy of Windows.


Protection 'cracking'

"Key generator" programs, commonly called "keygens", exist to randomly generate Windows XP product keys (thus, there are no longer any commonly used keys to block) and then activate Windows without contacting Microsoft. These may or may not allow the user to receive updates although Microsoft has allowed major security updates to be downloaded and applied through Windows Update and its downloads site, even in pirated or non-genuine copies of Windows.[59] In addition, a range of cracks and cracked versions of WGA exist, enabling a computer running a non-genuine copy of Windows to be detected as a genuine Windows system and access all appropriate Microsoft updates and enhancements. A key generator is used in many cryptographic protocols to generate a sequence with many psuedo-random characteristics. ... A keygen (a portmanteau of key generator) is a small program that will generate a cryptographic key for data encryption. ...


License and media types

There are three main types of Windows XP licenses: Retail, Volume (VLK), and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). All three types of licenses are available for Windows XP Professional (32-bit and 64-bit) and Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. Windows XP Home Edition is limited to Retail and OEM licenses whereas Windows XP Media Center Edition is exclusively available through OEM licenses.


Each type of license has a different installation CD. For customized or retail media, there is a very tiny difference on each type of disc that will only allow that installation disc to accept one type of product key.


Only retail and volume licenses include support for end-user installation scenarios from Microsoft. OEM software is pre-installed on systems and is supported by the system manufacturer rather than Microsoft. The price of such software is reduced to aid computer manufacturers in reducing costs of their computer system production. The cost of OEM software products bundled with systems is not disclosed by Microsoft or by its partners as each system manufacturer will define its own bundling price. Microsoft does not support OEM licenses because it cannot guarantee compatibility with every system configuration possible and it is the responsibility of each system manufacturer to ensure that its hardware is compatible.


Microsoft recommends that system manufacturers have their systems tested, for a fee, as part of the Windows Quality Online Services (Winqual) which includes extensive testing so that no component will cause instability in the Windows operating system due to incompatibility with the Windows operating system or with other system components or their respective drivers. Having a system tested and approved will allow the manufacturer to bear the "Certified for Windows" logo sticker on the exterior of the system, and there are additional benefits for having a tested product. This includes the product's being listed on the Windows Marketplace. Because of the fees and extensive requirements, Microsoft acknowledges that smaller system manufacturers may not opt in to the program until they produce computer systems at a modest rate and on recurring designs.


Retail

Retail licenses, those purchased from a retail store in full packaging, are of two sub-types: "Upgrade" and "Full Purchase Product", often abbreviated by Microsoft as FPP. FPP licenses are transferable from one computer to another, provided the previous installation is removed from the old computer. Although upgrade licenses are also transferable, a user must have a previous version of Windows even on the new computer to which they are moving the installation. Retail licenses include installation support for end-users, provided directly by Microsoft.


Volume License

A Volume License is the license given to a software version sold to businesses under a direct purchase agreement with Microsoft, and is sold as an upgrade license only, meaning that a previous license must be available for each new volume license. Volume license versions of Windows XP use a Volume License Key (VLK) which is a product key that does not require Windows Product Activation. The term "Volume License Key" refers to the ability to use one product key for multiple systems, depending on the type of agreement. Since Windows XP Volume License versions do not require product activation, this led to leaked copies of VLK media and product keys from businesses leading to piracy of Windows XP which quickly spread across the internet upon early release. Beginning with Service Pack 1, Microsoft's active attempts to search out and blacklist known pirated VLK product keys became well known due to the inability to install the service pack on a system with one of the blacklisted keys. Later, this led to the Windows Genuine Advantage program. Volume License key (VLK) is the term used by Microsoft to denote the product key used when installing software licensed under Volume Licensing, which allows a single product key to be used for multiple installations. ...     Windows XP is a major revision of the Microsoft Windows operating system created for use on desktop and business computer systems. ...


Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) licenses are pre-installed on, and sold with, pre-assembled computers from system manufacturers. There are two types of OEM product types: those used for "Direct OEMs" (major name brands that buy through a direct contract with Microsoft and produce and brand their own media from a Microsoft "Gold Master Copy" by using an Authorized Microsoft Duplication Partner), and those used for "System Builders" (local computer shops that buy generic, unbranded kits through Authorized Microsoft Distributors). Direct OEM product keys will often not activate with System Builder installation media because Direct OEMs are now required by Microsoft to pre-activate their copies in the factory using their own internal mechanism before delivery to the customer. It is recommended that System Builders also pre-activate their systems before delivery, but this is not mandatory. Original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, is a term that refers to containment-based re-branding, namely where one company uses a component of another company within its product, or sells the product of another company under its own brand. ...


OEM installations can be customized using the Microsoft OEM Preinstallation Kit with branding, logos, additional applications, optional services, alternate applications for certain Windows components, Internet Explorer links, and various other customizations. All OEM customers must include support and contact information for the initial installation of Windows because it is the responsibility for the OEM to support the Windows installation, and is not provided by Microsoft to the end-user. Direct OEMs must create their own media, but have the option of creating their own custom recovery solution, which may or may not be similar to a generic installation. OEMs may provide a recovery partition on the hard drive as the custom recovery solution rather than providing disc-based media with the computer.


Some end-users have found this to be a troublesome option, because in the event of an out-of-warranty hard drive failure, they may not have access to reinstall Windows on a new hard drive. System Builders are not allowed the option to create a custom recovery CD/DVD media. The only deliverable media available for a System Builder to give to the end-user is the unbranded OEM System Builder hologram media kit. Because of this, when end-users reformat their hard drives and re-install from the installation media, they lose all the custom branding and support information that the System Builder would have included.


As a supplemental recovery method to a CD/DVD-based installation, a System Builder may employ a fully customized recovery solution on the hard drive. Whether utilizing a recovery partition or not, a System Builder must still include the original generic OEM System Builder hologram CD/DVD media kit. OEM licenses are not transferable from one computer to another. Every computer sold/resold with an OEM license must include all of the original installation media or recovery solution, documentation, Certificate of Authenticity, and product key sticker with the sale. Microsoft requires that all OEM system manufacturers include as part of the configuration the Windows Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), which is the initial setup wizard encountered the first time Windows boots-up. It is also required that Value-Added Resellers (VAR's), retailers, and general resellers not tamper with the OEM's customized OOBE mechanism unless under permission by the OEM, and it is a recommended configuration for systems that are privately resold so that a customer will have a like-new computer experience upon first boot-up.


OEM licenses are to be installed by professional system manufacturers only. Under Microsoft's OEM License Agreement, they are not to be sold to end-users under any circumstance, and are to be pre-installed on a computer using the OEM Preinstallation Kit (OPK) before shipment to the customer, and must include at the very least the manufacturer's support contact information. They are therefore designed for installation only on a single computer and are not transferable, even if the original computer is no longer in use. This is not usually an issue for users who purchase new computer systems because most pre-assembled systems ship with a pre-installed operating system. There are few circumstances where Microsoft will allow the transfer of an OEM license from one non-functioning system to another, but the OEM System Builder License Agreement (SBLA), as well as the OEM End User License Agreement (EULA) do not contain any allowance for this, so it is entirely up to Microsoft's discretion, depending on the situation.[60]


See also

Microsoft Portal

Image File history File links Portal. ... Operating systems can be categorized by technology, ownership, licensing, working state, usage, and by many other characteristics. ... These tables compare general and technical information for a number of widely used and currently available operating systems. ... The history of computer operating systems recapitulates to a degree, the recent history of computing. ...

Literature/Books

  • Microsoft Windows XP Plain & Simple - J. Joyce and M. Moon, Microsoft Press, USA, 2005. ISBN 0-7356-2112-8

References

  1. ^ "Windows Life-Cycle Policy". Microsoft. Retrieved on 2007-06-19.
  2. ^ Microsoft Announces Windows XP and Office XP. Microsoft PressPass. Microsoft (February 5, 2001). Retrieved on 2006-05-13.
  3. ^ Windows "Longhorn" FAQ. Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows (2005-06-22). Retrieved on 2008-04-04. (see Q: What's up with the name Longhorn?)
  4. ^ Jeremy Kirk (January 18, 2006). Analyst: No effect from tardy XP service pack. ITworld.com.
  5. ^ Paul Thurrott (January 3, 2005). Windows XP Starter Edition. Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows. Retrieved on 2008-04-12.
  6. ^ "Windows XP-lite 'not value for money'", Silicon.com, June 28, 2005. 
  7. ^ "Europe gets 'reduced' Windows", Seattle Pi, December 24, 2004. 
  8. ^ "European Windows Called 'Windows XP Home Edition N'", Redmondmag.com, March 28, 2005. 
  9. ^ "Microsoft and EU reach agreement", BBC, March 28, 2005. 
  10. ^ Nate Anderson (December 7, 2005). South Korea fines Microsoft for antitrust abuses. Ars Technica. Retrieved on 2008-04-12.
  11. ^ List of languages supported in Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003. Microsoft (2007-12-03). Retrieved on 2008-05-13.
  12. ^ Cumulative Help Update for Microsoft Windows XP Multilingual User Interface (MUI) Pack (KB841625). Microsoft. Retrieved on 2008-05-13.
  13. ^ Unlimited Potential: Local Language Program. Microsoft. Retrieved on 2008-04-09.
  14. ^ "Change Windows visual effects", Microsoft. 
  15. ^ "Computer Slows When You Click Multiple Icons in Windows XP", Microsoft, January 15, 2006. 
  16. ^ Royale Noir: secret XP theme uncovered. istartedsomething.com (2006-10-29). Retrieved on 2008-04-23.
  17. ^ http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=75078
  18. ^ Royale Theme for WinXP - Official. Windows downloads. Softpedia (2006-05-11). Retrieved on 2008-04-06.
  19. ^ Turner, Paul (February 22, 2004). No view of Palouse from Windows. The Slice. Retrieved on 2007-01-09.
  20. ^ System requirements for Windows XP operating systems (April 28, 2005). Retrieved on 2007-03-12.
  21. ^ Windows XP Performance (2001-06-01). Retrieved on 2008-04-08.
  22. ^ System Requirements for Windows XP Service Pack 2. Microsoft (August 20, 2004). Retrieved on 2007-08-19.
  23. ^ a b Installing Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3
  24. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 2 Overview. Microsoft (2004-08-04). Retrieved on 2007-10-31.
  25. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 1 preview (September 9, 2002). Retrieved on 2007-09-21.
  26. ^ Differences Between Windows XP SP1 and Windows XP SP1a (February 3, 2003). Retrieved on 2007-09-21.
  27. ^ How to obtain the latest Windows XP service pack (2007-03-26). Retrieved on 2007-09-21.
  28. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 2 information. Microsoft (August 4, 2004).
  29. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 2c (SP2c) press release. Blink.nu (August 10, 2007).
  30. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 2c (SP2c) information. Microsoft (September 17, 2007).
  31. ^ a b Windows XP SP3 Released to Web (RTW), now available on Windows Update and Microsoft Download Center. Microsoft (2008-05-06). Retrieved on 2008-05-07.
  32. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for IT Professionals and Developers. Microsoft (2008-05-06). Retrieved on 2008-05-07.
  33. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 3 - ISO-9660 CD Image File. Microsoft (2008-05-06). Retrieved on 2008-05-07.
  34. ^ Windows XP Service Pack 3 Overview. Microsoft (2008-05-06). Retrieved on 2008-05-07.
  35. ^ List of fixes that are included in Windows XP Service Pack 3
  36. ^ No, Internet Explorer 7 Will Not(!) Be a Part of Windows XP SP3
  37. ^ Windows XP SP3 features
  38. ^ Slipstreamed SP3 still asks for product key
  39. ^ To Chris Keroack [MSFT] - Slipstreaming. Retrieved on 2008-05-19.
  40. ^ Slipstreaming SP3 with MCE 2005
  41. ^ a b FAQs regarding SP3 RTM
  42. ^ Lost Address Bar: Windows XP SP3 forum
  43. ^ "Lifecycle Supported Service Packs". Microsoft.
  44. ^ End of support for Windows 98, Windows Me, and Windows XP Service Pack 1 (January 6, 2006). Retrieved on 2006-06-27.
  45. ^ Lifecycle Supported Service Packs. Retrieved on 2007-02-01.
  46. ^ Microsoft Support Lifecycle (Windows XP). Microsoft (2005-05-04). Retrieved on 2008-05-19.
  47. ^ Microsoft Extends Sales Availability of Windows XP. Retrieved on 2008-04-08.
  48. ^ Microsoft extends Windows XP's stay, CNet News.com. Retrieved on 2007-09-28.
  49. ^ Microsoft Announces Extended Availability of Windows XP Home for ULCPCs. Retrieved on 2008-04-08.
  50. ^ Microsoft to keep Windows XP alive -- but only for Eee PCs and wannabes. Retrieved on 2008-04-08.
  51. ^ Microsoft Extends XP Through 2010 for Ultra-Low-Cost Laptops. Retrieved on 2008-04-08.
  52. ^ Microsoft Windows XP Lifecycle Policy. Microsoft. Retrieved on 2007-03-25.
  53. ^ "Full Disclosure: Your Take on Windows' Worst Irritations", PC World, October 2004. 
  54. ^ Mary Jo Foley (2007-10-04). Internet Explorer 7 update: Now WGA-free. ZDNet. Retrieved on 2007-12-16.
  55. ^ Steve Reynolds (2007-10-04). Internet Explorer 7 Update. Microsoft. Retrieved on 2007-12-16.
  56. ^ a b Description of the Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications application. Retrieved on 2006-10-31.
  57. ^ New WGA Notifications Released. MSDN Blogs (2006-09-29). Retrieved on 2006-12-03.
  58. ^ Lawsuit Labels Windows Genuine Advantage as Spyware. eWeek (2006-07-29). Retrieved on 2006-11-10.
  59. ^ Bruce Schneier (2005-07-29). Microsoft Permits Pirated Software to Receive Security Patches. Retrieved on 2007-12-22.
  60. ^ Microsoft OEM Partner Center Website. Retrieved on 2007-08-07.

Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 170th day of the year (171st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 36th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the year. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 133rd day of the year (134th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 173rd day of the year (174th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 94th day of the year (95th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 18th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 3rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 102nd day of the year (103rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 179th day of the year (180th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 358th day of the year (359th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 87th day of the year (88th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 87th day of the year (88th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 341st day of the year (342nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... Ars Technica is a technology-related website catering to PC enthusiasts. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 102nd day of the year (103rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 337th day of the year (338th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 133rd day of the year (134th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 133rd day of the year (134th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 99th day of the year (100th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 15th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 302nd day of the year (303rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 113th day of the year (114th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Softpedia is a site that indexes information and provides downloads for many games, drivers, mobile phones, and software for the Windows, Macintosh and Linux platforms. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 131st day of the year (132nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 96th day of the year (97th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 53rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 9th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 118th day of the year (119th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 71st day of the year (72nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the year. ... is the 152nd day of the year (153rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... is the 232nd day of the year (233rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 231st day of the year (232nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 216th day of the year (217th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 304th day of the year (305th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 252nd day of the year (253rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Also see: 2002 (number). ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 34th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2003 (MMIII) was a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... March 26 is the 85th day of the year (86th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 216th day of the year (217th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 222nd day of the year (223rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 260th day of the year (261st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 126th day of the year (127th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 127th day of the year (128th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 126th day of the year (127th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 127th day of the year (128th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 126th day of the year (127th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 127th day of the year (128th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 126th day of the year (127th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 127th day of the year (128th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 139th day of the year (140th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 6th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 178th day of the year (179th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 32nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 124th day of the year (125th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 139th day of the year (140th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 271st day of the year (272nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2008 (MMVIII) is the current year, a leap year that started on Tuesday of the Anno Domini (or common era), in accordance to the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 84th day of the year (85th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 277th day of the year (278th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... In 1989 Ziff Davis Inc. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 350th day of the year (351st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 277th day of the year (278th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Microsoft Corporation, (NASDAQ: MSFT, HKSE: 4338) is a multinational computer technology corporation with global annual revenue of US$44. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 350th day of the year (351st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 304th day of the year (305th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... MSDN Blogs [1] is Microsofts blog site where many of its employees blog to a public audience. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 272nd day of the year (273rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 337th day of the year (338th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... eWeek:the Enterprise Newsweekly is a weekly magazine published by Ziff Davis Media, featuring editorials, reviews, labs and rumors. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 210th day of the year (211th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2006 (MMVI) was a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 314th day of the year (315th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Bruce Schneier Bruce Schneier (born January 15, 1963) is an American cryptographer, computer security specialist, and writer. ... Year 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 210th day of the year (211th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 356th day of the year (357th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ... is the 219th day of the year (220th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

External links

v • d • e
Microsoft Windows
MS-DOS / 9x
1.0 · 2.0 · 2.1x · 3.0 · 3.1x · 95 · 98 · Me
NT
NT 3.1 · NT 3.5 · NT 3.51 · NT 4.0 · 2000 · XP (editions) · Server 2003 · Fundamentals for Legacy PCs · Vista (editions) · Home Server · Server 2008
CE
CE 1.0 · CE 2.0 · CE 3.0 · CE 4.0 · CE 5.0 · CE 6.0 · Mobile
Upcoming
7 · Server 7
Cancelled projects
Cairo · Nashville · Neptune · Odyssey
Related projects
The Windows logo used since November 2006. ... Microsofts disk operating system, MS-DOS, was Microsofts implementation of DOS, which was the first popular operating system for the IBM PC, and until recently, was widely used on the PC compatible platform. ... Windows 9x is the family of Microsoft Windows operating systems that comprises the 32-bit, DOS-based Windows versions: Windows 95, Windows 98, and often also Windows Me. ... Windows 1. ... Windows 2. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... Windows 3. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... Windows 95 is a consumer-oriented graphical user interface-based operating system. ... Windows 98 (codenamed Memphis) is a graphical operating system released on June 25, 1998 by Microsoft and the successor to Windows 95. ... Windows Millennium Edition, or Windows Me (IPA pronunciation: [miː], [ɛm iː]), is a hybrid 16-bit/32-bit graphical operating system released on September 14, 2000 by Microsoft. ... Windows NT (New Technology) is a family of operating systems produced by Microsoft, the first version of which was released in July 1993. ... Windows NT 3. ... Windows NT 3. ... Windows NT 3. ... Windows NT 4. ... Windows 2000 (also referred to as Win2K) is a preemptive, interruptible, graphical and business-oriented operating system designed to work with either uniprocessor or symmetric multi-processor computers. ... Windows Server 2003 (also referred to as Win2K3) is a server operating system produced by Microsoft. ... Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs (WinFLP) is an operating system from Microsoft, based on Windows XP, but optimized for older, less powerful hardware. ... Windows Vista (pronounced ) is a line of operating systems developed by Microsoft for use on personal computers, including home and business desktops, laptops, Tablet PCs, and media centers. ... Windows Vista is available in six editions. ... Windows Home Server is a home server operating system from Microsoft. ... Windows Server 2008 is the most recent release of Microsoft Windowss server line of operating systems. ... Windows CE (sometimes abbreviated WinCE) is a variation of Microsofts Windows operating system for minimalistic computers and embedded systems. ... Windows CE (sometimes abbreviated WinCE) is a variation of Microsofts Windows operating system for minimalistic computers and embedded systems. ... Windows CE (sometimes abbreviated WinCE) is a variation of Microsofts Windows operating system for minimalistic computers and embedded systems. ... Microsoft Windows CE 3. ... Windows CE (sometimes abbreviated WinCE) is a variation of Microsofts Windows operating system for minimalistic computers and embedded systems. ... It has been suggested that this article or section be merged into Windows CE. (Discuss) Windows CE 5. ... Windows Embedded CE 6. ... Windows Mobile is a compact operating system combined with a suite of basic applications for mobile devices based on the Microsoft Win32 API. Devices which run Windows Mobile include Pocket PCs, Smartphones, Portable Media Centers, and on-board computers for certain automobiles. ... Windows 7 (formerly codenamed Blackcomb, then Vienna) is a future version of Microsoft Windows. ... Cairo was the code name for a project at Microsoft from 1991 to 1996. ... Original Nashville desktop build 999 Nashville was the codename for Windows 96, a cancelled operating system upgrade for Microsoft Windows 95, which was originally intended to be released in 1996. ... Windows Neptune Logon Screen Windows Neptune is a version of Microsoft Windows that was in development from early 1999 to early 2000. ... Odyssey was a codename for a version of Microsoft Windows that was in development from early 1999 to early 2000. ... OS/2 is a computer operating system, initially created by Microsoft and IBM, then later developed by IBM exclusively. ...

  Results from FactBites:
 
Windows XP / 2000 / Vista Software (198 words)
Oxford for Windows XP / 2000 / Vista - a comprehensive range of monolingual and bilingual dictionaries and thesauruses by Oxford University Press, the largest publishing house in the UK and the world’s most trusted university press
Slovoed for Windows XP / 2000 / Vista - series of best-selling PC dictionaries for Windows Vista/XP/2000, that provides high translation rate, easy-to-use interface, detailed and up-to-date dictionary bases with numerous usage and sound samples.
Merriam-Webster for Windows XP / 2000 / Vista - best-selling, authoritative dictionary content from Merriam-Webster, America's leading and most distinguished language reference publisher.
O'Reilly Store -- Windows XP (1488 words)
Windows Vista Pocket Reference is the ideal guide to setting up and navigating the basics of this new operating system, from the new user interface to networking, multimedia, security, and&hellip; Read more.
Windows Media Center Wizardy is a guide to getting the most out of a PC running Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, delving into the hidden features and extended capabilities… Read more.
Windows XP power-users troll the web, documentation, and friends for useful tips and tricks--a keyboard shortcut here, an undocumented double-click there to eliminate annoyances, save time, and take control of… Read more.
  More results at FactBites »


 

COMMENTARY     


Share your thoughts, questions and commentary here
Your name
Your comments
Please enter the 5-letter protection code

Want to know more?
Search encyclopedia, statistics and forums:
 


Lesson Plans | Student Area | Student FAQ | Reviews | Press Releases |  Feeds | Contact
The Wikipedia article included on this page is licensed under the GFDL.
Images may be subject to relevant owners' copyright.
All other elements are (c) copyright NationMaster.com 2003-5. All Rights Reserved.
Usage implies agreement with terms.