Who Should Read This Chapter?

Before going on in this book, make sure you've read the introduction and installed Windows XP correctly onto your computer (installation is explained in Chapter 3, "Installing Windows XP Professional"). When those hurdles are completed, return here to learn about the user interface. Many might wonder why an advanced book such as this would include coverage of something as basic as the user interface. This is a decision that was primarily driven by the knowledge that many users of Windows XP Professional will be upgrading from Windows 9x, NT, and even 2000. For those users, savvy as they may be with Windows concepts, the Windows XP interface is different enough that they'll need a roadmap to get started. Once you are familiar with it, you'll wonder how you ever got around in those old clunky environments. In addition to just the new look of Windows XP, many new functions are woven into the fabric of the new user interface (UI). We don't want you to miss out on them! We've also included some UI tips and tricks you might not have known about. So even if you consider yourself a Windows veteran, at least take the time to skim through this chapter before you move on.

NOTE

Upgrading may not be just for the fun of it. Microsoft stopped offering support for MS-DOS, Windows 1.0-3.x, Windows for Workgroups, and Windows 95 on December 31, 2001. Support for Windows 98 (OSR2 and SE), Me, and Windows NT 4 Workstation was dropped on June 30, 2003. Support for Windows 2000 Professional was slated to end June 30, 2005. When Microsoft says it will be dropping support, that means the Microsoft technical support system will not respond to calls or email with questions regarding these operating systems. So, upgrade or be left in the dust.

Don't just take our word for it. Experiment with the new UI as you read this chapter. We've found that nothing can substitute for direct hands-on operation to get an understanding and a feel for the new user environment. Most of the information in this chapter is not of a level or type that may damage your system, but whenever caution is needed we'll be sure to spell it out clearly.

We won't be able to cover everything about the new environment in this chapter, but we do a good job of covering the important aspects and those of interest to most readers. If you run across a button or command that you don't recognize, don't be afraid to explore the Windows Help service for details and instructions. The XP Help system is much improved over its predecessors and actually includes meaningful content.

For those looking for ways to tweak and customize the new GUI, take a look at Chapter 23, "Tweaking the GUI," If at any time you desire to put this book down and walk away from your system, jump to the "Exiting Windows Gracefully" section near the end of this chapter to find out how to log off with aplomb.