Although it was introduced back in 2001, Microsoft Windows XP remains the favored Windows operating system for many businesses. MS Windows XP garnered legions of fans thanks to its task-based visual design, easy file and folder management features and simplified searching capabilities. The tepid reviews for its successor Windows Vista, has prompted many PC users to take a second look at Microsoft Windows XP.

Some key benefits of Microsoft Windows XP:

1. Microsoft Windows XP offers home office and small office networking.
2. MS Windows XP offers the ability to work and access your files remotely.
3. Windows XP has features that keep your computer and sensitive business data secure.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Microsoft Windows XP Professional

Microsoft Windows XP comes in two flavors for business: MS Windows XP Professional and Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64.

I recommend: Check out Microsoft Windows XP Professional. Designed for small businesses, it includes features like advanced networking tools and recovery options. The Remote Desktop feature, found only in this edition, allows for remote access from any other Windows-based PC, giving you the ability to access your files on the go. Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 is a higher-performance operating system that can be used as a technical workstation or for other applications that involved processing huge amounts of data.

MS Windows XP Tablet PC

The Windows XP Tablet PC edition combines the power of Microsoft Windows XP Professional with the mobility and versatility of pen-based computing.

I recommend: If your business takes you out of the office and into the field, try a Windows XP Tablet PC edition.

Other Microsoft Windows XP possibilities for business

Depending on the type and size of your business, you may benefit from other versions of Windows XP.

I recommend: Small companies — especially homebased businesses — that can get by with basic applications like word processing and spreadsheets, should consider the Microsoft Windows XP Home edition. The Microsoft Windows XP Media Center operating system can come in handy if your company is involved in digital entertainment.

Keep your MS Windows XP up-to-date

No matter which version of Microsoft Windows XP you use, it's important to keep it current with updates and downloads. Security fixes, enhanced features and drivers will help keep your PC running smoothly.

I recommend: Visit the Windows XP downloads center at Microsoft for the latest offerings.

Microsoft Windows XP in a Vista world

Although Windows XP is no longer the new kid on the block, it's still available on new PCs for those who aren't ready to upgrade to the Vista operating system.

I recommend: Most major PC makers, including Dell and HP, let you choose between the Microsoft Windows XP and Vista operating systems. To find out if your computer can be upgraded to Vista, consult Microsoft’s specification guidelines.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you often work on the fly, consider Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005. It lets you add handwritten notes to documents on your tablet PC.
• •  Having trouble figuring out how to use a feature in a Microsoft Windows XP Professional or another MS Windows XP operating system? Consult the tutorials on Microsoft's Web site.
• •  If security's an issue for your business, check out the Windows XP Service Pack 2, which includes Windows firewalls, pop-up blockers for Internet Explorer and Windows security.