The Bottom Line

Probably the most important thing Microsoft did in regards to improving user help in Windows XP was to make the operating system itself more robust. Fewer crashes and fewer problems mean less need for technical support of all types. If it doesn't break, you don't need help to fix it.

Still, Windows XP is a Microsoft product, so it probably will break, at some point in time. When you need help with Windows, then, remember these key points:

• Microsoft has totally revamped its old Help system, which is now called the Help and Support Center; for traditional text-based help, you can search for specific information (using the Search box) or browse through general topics (in the Pick a Help Topic section).

• If you don't know the cause of a problem, click the Fixing a Problem link to open one of Windows XP's interactive Troubleshooters. Walk through the questions and suggestions to try and isolate the cause of your current problem.

• The Help and Resource Center also functions as a central access point for Windows XP's key system maintenance and troubleshooting utilities. The best of these utilities are listed in the Pick a Task section.

• If you can't find your answer in the built-in Help files, click the Support button to go online and search Microsoft's vast repository of Internet-based help resources.

• If there's no way you can figure out your problems on your own, use XP's Remote Assistance feature to let a technical professional (or just a savvy friend) take control of your entire system by remote control. While connected, a remote assistant can launch programs, run troubleshooting utilities, and even download and install new and updated device drivers.