Windows XP is one of Microsoft’s most popular operating systems. Millions of ATMs around the world were relying on the operating system when Microsoft announced its intention to end its support for XP.
Back then, consumers could buy a 32-bit or 64-bit version of the program. Released in 2001, some people might be surprised to learn that XP began life as Odyssey and Neptune.
These were separate projects, but the company combined them to create ‘Whistler,’ the program that became Windows XP. XP was a hit when it first came out. Consumers appreciated the user-friendly interface and stable performance.
However, by 2009, mainstream support for the operating system had ended. PC enthusiasts could still rely on the company’s extended support. Microsoft finally turned its back on XP in 2014.
The decision raised concerns because many public and private organizations remained dependent on the operating system. As such, by ending support for XP, Microsoft was threatening to expose numerous vital systems to security vulnerabilities.
The 3 million ATMs that utilized Windows XP were particularly concerning. Vendors floated the idea of upgrading to Windows 7 or even a Linux platform. China had a bigger issue.
Roughly half of all the computers in the country ran Windows XP. The operating system had persisted in China because the cost of modern versions of Windows was too high.
Any hope people had of upgrading to Windows 8 went out the window when some voices in the country accused the operating system of posing a security threat.
At one point, the Chinese government asked Microsoft to continue providing support for XP to aid their efforts to combat piracy. But the company ignored the request.
Even though Windows XP presents a threat to users because Microsoft has stopped providing patches and security updates, many consumers have refused to upgrade to newer technologies.
| Size | 589MB |
| Developed by | Microsoft |
| Platform | x86 and x64-Bit |
| Update | Discounted |
| Language | English |
This is especially true in third-world countries where XP is the cheapest operating system they can access. Interestingly, you can still protect your system from malware and hackers if you deploy an effective antivirus.
If you can believe it, some antiviruses still work on XP, including Avast and AVG. They offer quick scans, full-system scans, targeted scans, and all the other features you expect from an antivirus in a modern operating system.
You can also deploy VPNs to keep your traffic safe from intrusions. Microsoft Office will work on a Windows XP machine. But you need an older version. The newer versions are not compatible with XP.
Related: 6 Best Android Emulator for Windows XP 32 &64bit (2022)
How old is Windows XP?
Windows XP is one of Microsoft’s oldest operating systems, initially published on October 25, 2001. Since then, it has grown in popularity, and consumers continue to download and install it on their computers.
Windows XP Professional Features
- A new interface that includes new system icons, an overhaul of the Start menu, an enhanced subpixel rendering system, and more.
- Faster application launch times
- You can reverse the installation of updated drivers
- Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance
- Internet Explorer 6, MSN Explorer, and Outlook Express 6
- Direct X 8.1
- System Restore
- Automated System Recovery
- Automatic Updates
- Multilingual Support
System Requirements (Windows XP)
- Processor: 233MHz Processor
- RAM: 64MB (RAM)
- Free space: 1.5GB (Storage)
- Boot: CD/DVD ROM
- Graphics: Super VGA 800×600
These are the minimum requirements. They will permit XP to work on your computer. But if you want to get the most out of the operating system, aim for 128MB of RAM and a 300MHz processor.
Will you get Windows XP updates in future?
As you may be aware, Windows XP is one of the oldest operating systems available, having been released in 2001. So, finally, Microsoft has discontinued it, which means you will no longer receive Windows XP updates. You use it at your own risk.
How To Install Windows XP
Windows XP is extremely outdated today. However, people continue to gravitate toward the operating system. If you want to install the program on your computer, these steps will guide you:
Step 1: Get Windows XP ISO
First of all, you need a copy of the operating system. You can either acquire a physical disc or download a softcopy. Make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements.
Every modern machine is powerful enough to run XP. However, if you have an older device, look at the specs.
Additionally, you shouldn’t proceed until you locate the product key. Physical copies of XP have the product key on the packaging. If you downloaded the operating system, one of the files has the product key. Check all the notepads.
Step 2: Change Boot Load
If you have a disc, don’t insert it just yet. Change the boot order to ensure that the computer boots from the disc. This means shutting your computer down, starting it, and then pressing one of the ‘F’ buttons. F8 will probably take you to the appropriate menu. But you can try other buttons if that one fails.
Step 3: Start Windows
Insert the disc and start the computer. You don’t have to do much at this point. XP will check the hardware. Wait until you see the Welcome screen. At that point, the installer will tell you what to do.
You can either set up the operating system or repair a pre-existing Windows XP. You can also choose to quit the installation process entirely.
Step 4: Accept the license agreement
Make the choice that fits your situation. Follow the instructions until the installer asks you to accept the End User License Agreement. You cannot proceed without accepting the user agreement.
Step 5: Select partitions
Use the arrow keys to select the drive. You must choose a partition to hold the operating system. The screen that provides this option will also allow you to create or destroy partitions. In other words, you can create a separate partition for Windows XP.
However, don’t be so quick to delete partitions. You will lose the data they contain.
Step 6: Choose a formatting option
Once you select the appropriate hard drive, the installer will ask you to choose a formatting option. NFTS makes the most sense.
Step 7: After installation enter the time date
The installer will copy the relevant files and reboot the computer. Let the installation proceed without interruption. The computer will eventually prompt you to enter the time, date, and name.
Step 8: Product key
Enter the product key to authenticate your version of XP. If you don’t have any keys then search on Google.
Step 9: Configure the network settings
When the installation is complete, the operating system will let you know. You can take as much time as you want to configure the various settings. You can also register your installation. But this step is optional.
How many people will use the computer? You can create different accounts and profiles for each user. Even though XP will provide all the drivers you need, you might have to update your drivers, especially if you encounter hardware and software errors.
If you have recent drivers, a computer technician may encourage you to revert to older drivers.
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