Windows XP System Requirements
Windows XP System Requirements
Minimum Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 233 MHz (Pentium or compatible) | 300 MHz or faster |
| RAM | 64 MB | 128 MB or more |
| Hard Disk | 1.5 GB free space | 2+ GB free space |
| Display | 800 x 600, Super VGA | 1024 x 768 or higher |
| Optical Drive | CD-ROM or DVD-ROM | CD-ROM or DVD-ROM |
| Input | Keyboard and mouse | Keyboard and mouse |
Practical Requirements
While Windows XP can run on a 233 MHz processor with 64 MB RAM, the experience is extremely slow. For a usable system:
- Pentium III 500 MHz or faster — the Luna visual style is noticeably sluggish below 500 MHz
- 256 MB RAM — 128 MB is workable but swaps heavily. 512 MB is ideal.
- 4 GB hard disk — Windows XP with SP3 and Office needs at least 3 GB
- DirectX 9 GPU — for Aero Glass-like features in later updates and gaming
Upgrade Paths
| From | To XP Home | To XP Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 98/98SE | Upgrade | Upgrade |
| Windows Me | Upgrade | Upgrade |
| Windows NT 4.0 Workstation | Clean install only | Upgrade |
| Windows 2000 Professional | Clean install only | Upgrade |
| Windows XP Home | N/A | Upgrade |
Hardware Compatibility
Windows XP has excellent driver support. Most hardware manufactured between 1998 and 2008 is supported out of the box or via Windows Update. Check the Windows Catalog at http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/hcl/ for compatibility details.