Windows XP for Home Users, Service Pack 2 Edition

Turn on your computer, and there it is--waiting for you to start using it. We're talking, of course, about Windows XP--the world's most ubiquitous operating system--and if you want to make the most of it, you need this thorough, practical guide from veteran author Michael Miller. In this thoroughly updated volume, Michael covers all the basics of installing, setting up, and getting online with Windows XP as well as all the features new to the latest edition: Windows Security Center, Windows Firewall, changes to Windows Update, Internet Explorer's pop-up blocker and download monitoring, Outlook Express security, Wireless Networking Wizard, and the revised operation and features of Windows Media Player. You'll start by getting acquainted with XP's interface before moving on to discover how to work with files, programs, and peripherals, and how to take Windows online. Along the way you?ll find out how to chat online with Windows Messenger, send mail with Outlook Express, surf the Web with Internet Explorer, and more!

User review
Windows XP for Home Users. Service Pack 2 Edition.
I found this a very comprehensive book on Windows XP. It was written in such a way that the beginner would not have experienced too many problems in understanding each section,yet at the same time,it gave the more experienced computer user the knowledge to undertake and rectify problems which could arise.

User review
Everything I've Learned About XP Has Come From This Guide
I first checked this book out from my local library and found it so straighfoward and to the point re: the how to's and whatfor's that I was compelled to buy it. I've only been using XP for about a month now but this book has pretty much helped make me a pro. Excellent training guide with zero fluff.

User review
Concentrates on the Differenced from Earlier Versions
This book presents Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack 2 installed. It presumes that you have some understanding of and probably have use some earlier edition of Windows. As such it talks mostly about the differences rather than giving a 'this is a window, this is a mouse' type of introduction.

Note Service Pack 2. There were several major changes made in SP2, particularly in the general area of security from viruses, and the like. If you don't have SP2, download it from www.microsoft.com.

Much of the information in this book also applies to Windows XP Professional. The two versions are basically identical except that Professional has some additional built in features such as a web server. These extra features are not covered.

I think the thing I liked best about this book is the nearly 100 pages on getting help, updating, and two chapters called 'Keeping Windows Healty and Happy,' and 'Troubleshooting Common Problems.' XP is a lot more stable than the earlier versions of Windows, but it's not perfect.