Windows XP is a line of proprietary operating system which was developed by Microsoft and is meant to be used for general purpose computers , such as home computers and business desktops , notebook computers and various types of media centres . Windows XP succeeds Windows 2000 and Windows ME , and is the first consumer – oriented operating system produced by Microsoft to be built on the Windows NT kernel and architecture . The most popular operating systems versions are Windows XP Home Edition , which is primarily meant for home users , and Windows XP Professional , which boasts additional features , such as support for Windows Server domains and dual processors , and is meant for professionals and other experts . Windows XP Media Centre Edition has additional multimedia features . Windows XP has an edge over the earlier versions of Microsoft Windows because of enhanced efficiency and better stability .

Windows XP helps you access and manage your files on the pc using a Graphical _User Interface GUI . All Programs and files stored on the PC are represented as pictures that are called icons . These icons are stored on the desktop .

Components of Windows XP

The Windows XP user interface consists of various components and concepts that help make Windows XP user friendly and intuitive . Some of the important components are :-

1. Desktop
2. Start Menu
3. Taskbar
4. Icons
5. Recycle Bin
6. Windows
7. Applications
8. Folders
9. Files
10. Control Panels