Hi mouthies....
Lets pick some points on the Windows XP... which has 2 Editions
Windows XP HOME
Windows XP Professional
This Operating system brought a good change from the same old desktop since windows 98, 98, Me, 2000 etc...
I would say this changed the appearance and gave a new look to all computers around the planet....except MAC
windows xp has some great features as .. Userlogin can be switched .. which no windows OS had.
This has a very good GUI [ Graphical User Interface ]
but friends.. please think about the RAM used in your computer.. I would say unless and until you have the best cofiguration of your computer do not install windows XP.
That will have a poor performance....and again too slow.
Microsoft is never bothered about user interface with the OS... Its main intention is to grow in market .. even you sell the most failure product.
Okie lets speak about Windows Xp Home and Windows XP Professional.
XP Home is only for the standalone PC that mean only one comuter without Network. and It has a enhanced feature in Multimedia and Internet connectivity. and salient features are huge.
XP Pro is for the Network PC.. It has enhanced option in networking and it is not recommended by many because of its poor performance and in network if the bandwidth is low.. this PC will be dead slow.
It Needs a very good video card. so that you can get good internet multimedia experience....
Good But Not For My Kinda Work!!!
These are some good sites where you can get troubleshooting tips:
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/troubleshoot/
http://www.support.microsoft.com/?kbid=310064
http://www.cdr.cz/link/2497
http://www.jsifaq.com/SUBK/tip5400/rh5469.htm