Part 1: Setup, Startup, Tune-Up

the right setup and configuration choices the first time. Don't like the
Don't worry. We've uncovered the fastest, easiest ways to get things done, •
show you how to tweak the radically redesigned Windows XP interface so
way you want it to work. We've found plenty of registry hacks and unci
secrets, too.

For the sake of this book, we assume that you have plenty of experience .
95/98/Me and at least a nodding familiarity with Windows 2000. If that
you, read this chapter carefully to learn about the major changes in Wind
will most affect you. If you're an experienced Windows 2000 user, some 0 .
tion in this chapter may seem familiar, but we recommend that you skim
anyway, because some changes that aren't immediately obvious can have a
on your PC and network. (Pay particular attention to the tricky new securiull
sharing system, which is dramatically different from its Windows 2000 pr,
home and small business PCs.)

~WW:fr;eNew in Windows XP
Windows XP brings together two product families that were previously ~
decidedly unequal. From Windows 2000, it inherits a reliable, generally cr
foundation. It adds a host of user-friendly features and system utilities thai
ously available only in Windows 98 or Windows Me. For good measure, it
some interface enhancements and new capabilities that were previously avo
as third-party add-ins.

Most importantly, Windows XP comes in two distinctly different versions:

• Windows XP Home Edition. This budget-priced version is typically

bundled with consumer PCs sold for use in homes and very small busi-
nesses. It's intended for nontechnical users who don't need to connect
corporate networks and don't want to fuss with complicated system ani
security options. It's compatible with any desktop or notebook PC that
a single CPU and a single video display.
• Windows XP Professional. This version includes everything in the Home
Edition, plus all the networking and security components required to joi
a Windows NT /2000/XP domain. If your system configuration includes
certain types of high-performance hardware, such as a dual-processor
motherboard, you'll need Windows XP Professional to fully utilize it.

Before you read any further, check to see which version of Windows XP is in
your PC, Open Control Panel's System option and look on the General tab. Fie
shows what you should expect to see if you're running the initial release of Win
Professional. If you've installed a service pack, you'll see its details here, too. !. Yo
read more details about the differences between Windows XP Home Edition an
Professional later in this chapter.)