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Windows XP: The Ultimate Comparison Guide, Pros and Cons
Why Windows XP is still relevant in the modern world
7 min. read
Updated onAugust 5, 2024
updated onAugust 5, 2024
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Key notes
Windows XP has been around for a long time. It has been the most widely adopted operating system from Microsoft. Since its release in 2001, it has been updated several times. While it had its share of problems like any other OS, people still use it.
Some of the reasons include its simplicity, power, and flexibility. On the downside, Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft. The company stopped providing support because it was no longer able to provide security updates for it. Luckily, you canuse optimization softwareto boost its performance.
What are the advantages of Windows XP?
Some of the reasons why Windows XP is still a fan-favorite include:
What are the main features of Windows XP?
With all the changes made to Windows in recent years, one would wonder,What is the use of Microsoft XP? Windows XP is still being used by millions of people worldwide. It remains popular due to its wide adoption.
Organizations worldwide are still using it because they do not want to upgrade their systems for security reasons or compatibility issues caused by newer versions of Windows.
1. Support for multiple users
Windows XP includes support for multiple users. Each user has a desktop or personal area to work in. This allows users to have their own settings, programs, and files.
You can also allow guest accounts that do not require passwords so that people can use your computer without authorization.
2. Start menu
This menu opens up when you click on the Windows logo in the bottom left corner of your desktop. When it’s open, you will see all your installed programs listed in alphabetical order so that it’s easy for you to find what you need quickly.
Users can also pin frequently used applications. The Start menu is also customizable, where users have the option to remove or add links.
3. Taskbar
This bar appears at the bottom of your screen and allows you to see which programs are running, what they’re doing, and how much memory they use. You can also open or close programs from here, as well as minimize, maximize, or restore them.
Another exciting feature is the Taskbar grouping which allows users to click one button and reveal an array of options for a particular program.
4. Media features
Windows XP has several media-related features, including Windows Media Player and Windows Movie Maker. The digital media player allows users to play audio files, view video files, and stream online video content.
It also has a built-in library so users can organize their media collection easily. Windows Movie Maker lets users edit videos and create simple movies with ease. It also includes tools for adding music tracks and captions.
5. Parental controls
Parental controls allow you to restrict access to games, websites, and content based on ratings that you set up yourself. You can set time limits for when your kids can use their computer and what they can do with it while online or playing games.
You can even lock down certain programs so they can’t be opened without your permission or control what sites they visit while surfing the web.
Why was Windows XP so good?
Here are a few reasons users liked Windows XP:
Is Windows XP still good to use?
You canstill run Windows XP. But the OS lost support from Microsoft in 2014, so you wouldn’t be getting any security or feature updates, which puts the PC at a greater risk of being attacked by malware or virus.
Also, several applications might not run on Windows XP due to compatibility issues. Though if that doesn’t seem like a hassle and the OS is already installed, you can keep using Windows XP, at least for now.
What are the limitations of Windows XP?
Having explored all that Windows XP has to offer, it brings us to the age-old question:Which is better, Windows XP or Windows 10?The two operating systems are very different from each other, but they do share some similarities.
Ultimately, there are a lot of trade-offs when it comes to upgrading to Windows 10. Some people will consider the upgrade, especially if they use a compatible computer, but others may not even bother.
It all boils down to the activities you use your PC for. If you are doing basic stuff, then by all means,continue using Windows XP. This just means that you’ll have to take measures such ashiding your IP in Windows XPto minimize the security risks.
However, if you are looking to explore more modern features and overall enhanced performance, Windows 10 is. We also have a great guide onWindows XP Black Edition, so you might want to check it out before leaving.
We’d love to hear your stance on Windows XP and whether you’d consider using it in the comments section below.
More about the topics:operating system,windows XP
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
