What's the difference between Windows 2000 and Windows XP?

Windows 2000 and Windows XP are essentially the same operating system (known internally as Windows NT 5.0 and Windows NT 5.1, respectively.) Here are some considerations if you're trying to decide which version to use:

Windows 2000 benefits

• Windows 2000 has lower system requirements, and has a simpler interface (no "Styles" to mess with).
• Windows 2000 is slightly less expensive, and has no product activation.
• Windows 2000 has been out for a while, and most of the common problems and security holes have been uncovered and fixed.
• Third-party software and hardware products that aren't yet XP-compatible may be compatible with Windows 2000; check the manufacturers of your devices and applications for XP support before you upgrade.

Windows XP benefits

• Windows XP is somewhat faster than Windows 2000, assuming you have a fast processor and tons of memory (although it will run fine with a 300Mhz Pentium II and 128MB of RAM).
• The new Windows XP interface is more cheerful and colorful than earlier versions, although the less-cartoony "Classic" interface can still be used if desired.
• Windows XP has more bells and whistles, such as the Windows Movie Maker, built-in CD writer support, the Internet Connection Firewall, and Remote Desktop Connection.
• Windows XP has better support for games and comes with more games than Windows 2000.
• Windows XP is the latest OS - if you don't upgrade now, you'll probably end up migrating to XP eventually anyway, and we mere mortals can only take so many OS upgrades.
• Manufacturers of existing hardware and software products are more likely to add Windows XP compatibility now than Windows 2000 compatibility.