Your computer must meet the minimum system requirements to run the Windows XP Professional operating system. For example, Windows XP Professional needs to have a minimum amount of memory and hard drive space. Additional features require having a CD or DVD drive installed, as well as a video card and sound card. Computers that do not have necessary components installed need to be upgraded or replaced prior to installing XP Professional.
Memory
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Windows XP Professional requires a minimum of 64 megabytes of RAM to use the basic features of the operating system. Microsoft recommends having at least 128MB of RAM installed for the operating system to function correctly. However, having 512MB installed provides a faster and more productive experience.
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Hard Drive
Windows XP Professional requires at least 1.5 gigabytes of available space on the hard drive for the installation of the operating system files. Modern hard drives are more than large enough to install Windows XP Professional.
Sound Card
Windows XP Professional has systems sounds and audio that require the use of a sound card. Most computers have an on-board sound controller included on the motherboard that can be used for sounds and other audio. A third-party sound card can also be added for additional audio options.
Optical Drive
A CD or DVD drive is required to install the operating system and to play audio or video from disc or install packaged software. Older computer systems may only have a CD-ROM drive. Newer systems typically come with a combination CD and DVD writer.
Video Card
A video card is required with at least 8MB of video RAM and a resolution of 800 by 600 for the display. Modern video cards support much higher resolutions and can have 128MB or more of video memory on the card.