UPDATED: getting Windows XP

Joyce called the radio show and we discussed the availability of Windows XP...

Some computer manufacturers might allow you to purchase a computer, and then purchase a version of Windows XP for that computer.

For lifecycle information on Microsoft products, see their Support Lifecycle Index page, and the Support Lifecycle Index.

On June 30, Microsoft stopped distributing Windows XP...but you might be able to get it from stores and "system builders" (until January 2009).

(I have been informed that Systemax, Seneca Data, and Cheap Guys Computers are "system builders"...)

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There are reports that Windows XP Professional could be available (from "OEMs") until May (and July) 2009. As of (2008) December 22, I have not been able to locate that information on microsoft.com.

Windows memory limits

Dave called after installing Microsoft Windows XP, and the issue of memory limits arose...

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Before you go to the website I'm about to mention, you may want to lower the volume on your speakers: I was greatly annoyed by an advertisement on this site that had sound. The best "plain English" answer I found was at the "Dan's Data" website:

"...you shouldn't install more than 3Gb if you're not running a 64-bit operating system.

"...a plain PC running a 32-bit operating system...shouldn't have more than 3Gb of RAM...

"If you install 4Gb, there is no way to make all of the RAM between 3Gb and 4Gb available without installing a 64-bit OS, which you can't do unless you have a 64-bit CPU. And even then it won't necessarily work."

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Per Microsoft...

Physical Memory Limits: Windows Vista
32-bit Windows
4 GB

Physical Memory Limits: Windows XP
32-bit Windows
4 GB

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard/Windows Easy Transfer

During our radio show we spoke with Doris about the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard...

(I need to say I have never used this. No reflection on this tool, but due to bad past data loss experiences I always "manually" copy files..."by hand" if you will. When it comes to backups, I only trust me.)

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How to use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard with a wizard disk in Windows XP
"You can use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to transfer settings from one computer to another computer. The settings that you can transfer include your personalized settings for Microsoft Internet Explorer and Outlook Express, desktop settings, display settings, and dial-up connection settings.
"You can also use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to create a backup copy of your Windows XP settings. You can use this backup copy of your settings to restore your files and settings if you have to reinstall Windows XP."

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard in Windows XP

Step-by-Step Guide to Migrating Files and Settings

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In consideration of Windows Vista...

Windows Easy Transfer in Windows Vista supports the following operating systems:
• Windows 2000 SP 4
• Windows XP SP 2
• Windows Vista

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How to use Windows Easy Transfer to migrate files and settings from one Windows-based computer to another Windows Vista-based computer

"Windows Easy Transfer guides you through migrating files and settings from one Windows-based computer to another Windows Vista-based computer...

"In Windows Easy Transfer, you can select what you want to migrate. You can also select the migration method that you want to use. What you can migrate includes the following:
• Files and folders
• E-mail settings, such as contacts and messages
• Program settings
• User accounts and settings
• Internet settings and favorites
• Music, pictures, and videos"

Could Windows XP Continue?

Great story on CRN on the possibility of XP getting extended life. While not a direct statement from Steve Ballmer, reading between the lines could indicate life beyond June?

Read the story here
http://www.crn.com/software/207400689