Microsoft's new OS (operating system) was released on the 25 October 2001 to a razzle dazzle affair both locally and overseas. For those of you who missed the grand opening, you missed Rove (Channel 10 Rove Live) talking about the features of Windows XP, Bardot performing, a live fashion show and Mission Impossible stunts. But it wasn't all flash, they did reveal the new features of XP. And the question on everyone's lips is "Why should we upgrade (again!)?". Microsoft's reply includes the following features:

Greater Productivity

Windows XP is hyped as allowing for greater productivity both at home and in the workplace - apparently you can be 17 times more productive than on other Windows OS'. The main changes are cosmetic in this area and include: · A new look ("more intuitive") start menu · A cleaner and crisper looking desktop · Documenting taskbar groupings · Device driver rollback · Standby and hibernation modes (you'll never have to turn off your computer again) · New integrated control panel - asking the user questions, instead of the headings as is the case with Windows 9x. · Share the computer with others in the family with multiple logins at the same time.

And if you don't like a lot of the cosmetic features - you can always go back to the "Classic" mode - the choice is up to you.

Enhanced Multimedia Content

Windows XP offers a lot more multimedia content than ever before. Windows Media Player now lets you play more multimedia files than ever - including DVDs and MP3's. Thumbnail viewing is available so you can view your photo albums without even opening the directories, and you can rotate, compress and attach files to emails straight from Windows Explorer.

You can store music from CDs onto your hard drive, with Windows Media Player, and you can even create your own compilation CDs and burn them - at greater speeds than ever before. Windows Movie Maker allows you to connect your camcorder and edit home videos (much like Adobe Premier and other movie editing software).

Network Connectivity

Windows XP makes it easier than ever to network computers. The new technology automatically finds networks and implements them. It allows for hot docking stations, and allows greater access and usability for wireless networking.

Work on network files offline with offline folders - which automatically synchronizes with the network once you reconnect - it's a lot like briefcase, only now it's directly input into Windows Explorer.

Windows Messenger has also had an overhaul, with voice and video streaming improvements. Phone call quality conversation is now possible.

Windows XP now gives you greater security as you can encrypt your files according to the user and password you log on with. Files you nominate (within Windows Explorer) are encrypted and tied to your log-in password, so even if a third party accesses your hard drive after it has been removed from your computer, the files are protected.

Get expert help over the net

Another feature that has been implemented is remote access/control of your computer. This allows you to get help over the net - from relatives, friends, co-workers and even Microsoft technicians. Much like PC Anywhere, you can invite a user (using email) to "take over" control of your computer from a remote location, while you watch and learn.

Is it all Good?

When deciding on whether to purchase the new version, you must keep in mind that Microsoft isn't going to tell you the bad things about Windows XP. These include: · It's large and slow, especially on older machines. On top of the line machines, there isn't much of a difference between the speed of Windows 95/98 and Windows XP, but if your machine doesn't have a lot of grunt, it's going to take up a lot of hard drive space, and memory. · You have to ring up Microsoft if you want to upgrade your machine. Microsoft has increased security of Windows XP by creating an imprint of the current system. If you wish to upgrade your computer, you'll have to give Microsoft a call to disable the old imprint, and activate a new one.

The Final Verdict

Although there are quite a few new features of Windows XP, not the least "for the first time ever, the code across the entire range of Windows products have been standardized", many people are still wondering if it's worth the $599.00 (Professional Edition) price tag. This can be seen by the sluggish response XP is receiving in Sydney.

Upgrading (or installing a new version of XP) is now easier than ever - and so is using Windows. You just need to get past the price.

If you need any further advice, please feel free to contact us on (02) 9870 7777.

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Windows XP's new features include:

- Greater productivity

- Enhanced Multimedia Content

- Easier Network connectivity

- Get expert help over the net

Windows XP is recommended with all new purchases, but if you've got an old system, it's probably best to keep with what you've got.

The best way to find out is talk to a professional about your specific needs.