What is the difference between XP and XP Professional?
Sarah Duran
Updated on February 19, 2026
What is the difference between XP and XP Professional?
Windows XP Home Edition comes with a basic package for support, and peer to peer computer networking (up to five computers); Windows XP Professional Edition comes with a more sophisticated peer networking package, modified security support between multiple users on the same computer, and support for those who wish to …
How old is Windows XP Professional?
Windows XP
| Released to manufacturing | August 24, 2001 |
| General availability | October 25, 2001 |
| Final release | Service Pack 3 (5.1.2600.5512) / April 21, 2008 |
| Update method | Windows Update Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) |
| Support status |
|---|
Can Windows XP be upgraded for free?
There is no free upgrade from XP to Vista, 7, 8.1 or 10. Forget about Vista as the extended support for Vista SP2 ends April, 2017. Follow these steps before you buy Windows 7; extended support Windows 7 SP1 until January 14, 2020 .
How can I install Windows XP for free?
A copy of Windows XP Mode (see below).
- Download Windows XP Mode Virtual Hard Disk. Download the Windows XP Mode virtual hard disk.
- Install Windows XP Mode in a Virtual Machine.
- Windows XP Mode Disk Settings.
- Run the Windows XP Virtual Machine.
Is Windows XP Professional 32bit or 64bit?
In the System Properties window, click the General tab. If the text beneath System says Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, then you are running a 64-bit edition of Windows XP. Otherwise, you are running a 32-bit edition.
Is Windows XP Professional still supported?
After 12 years, support for Windows XP will end on April 8, 2014. There will be no more security updates or Microsoft provided technical support for the Windows XP operating system. It is very important that customers and partners migrate to a modern operating system such as Windows 7 or 8.1.
How much does it cost to upgrade Windows XP to Windows 10?
Windows 10 Home costs £119.99/US$139 and Professional will set you back £219.99/US$199.99. You can choose a download or a USB.
How do I upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7 Professional?
How to Upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7
- Run Windows Easy Transfer on your Windows XP PC.
- Rename your Windows XP drive.
- Insert the Windows 7 DVD and restart your PC.
- Click Next.
- Click the Install Now button.
- Read the License Agreement, select the I Accept the License Terms check box, and click Next.
