Rated 
Started Apr 16, 2005
Strengths: Has included SP2 updates for improved security and networking. Includes new driver support for updated hardware.
Weaknesses: SP2 still has issues that can interfere with some current software.
Installs easily just as the original MS Windows XP Professional did without the need for extended updating from the MS Windows site.
Really of no great advantage over previous versions except for the SP2 update, but remember the update is available free. The time saved for an Internet update download or Microsoft's free disk upgrade to SP2 is all that is saved.
The firewall and added security included in SP2 is of benefit to those not using antivirus or firewall programs. Happily, It shuts down easily in favor of purchased programs for this, to prevent conflicts.
The networking improvements are of great benefit to those using wireless cards as they allow for WEP and WPA security to eliminate the need for added applications, sometimes actually speeding up these connection rates using the Windows Configuration program for this.
This is still the best OS for home or small business 32 bit PC applications. Even with the security breaches of the past, it remains above others and its current security is effective.
Remember 64 bit Windows XP Professional is soon to be released in other than the free Beta for new 64 bit systems.
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