Manage and Operate Windows XP

Find resources and tools to help you better manage your Windows XP PC infrastructure, keep your systems up-to-date, and optimize system performance. Not sure what a tool does? Hover over the link for an explanation.

Springboard Series Spotlight

Group Policy for Beginners
Read this introduction to Group Policy for an overview of what you can do with Group Policy and information on essential concepts that you must know.

Install and Manage Devices

Tools:  Debugging Tools for Windows (x86)  |  Debugging Tools for Windows (x64)

• Managing Devices in Windows XP
  
• How to Manage Devices with Device Manager
  
• How to Use Windows XP to Share a Printer with Others on Your Network
  

Manage Settings with Group Policy

Tools:  Group Policy Settings Reference

• Group Policy for Beginners
  
• Introduction to Group Policy in Windows XP
  
• How to Use the Group Policy Results (GPResult.exe) Command Line Tool
  
• How to Verify Your Policy Settings
  
• Using Software Restriction Policies to Help Protect Against Unauthorized Software
  

Deploy Service Packs

Tools: Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT)

Deploy Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3):

Optimize Performance

Tools:  Windows Performance Analysis Tools  |  Process Monitor  |  Process Explorer

Additional Tools

• Microsoft Operations Framework (MOF)
  
• Windows PowerShell 2.0 and WinRM 2.0 for Windows Server 2008 (x86)
  
• Windows PowerShell 2.0 and WinRM 2.0 for Windows Server 2008 (x64)
  

Windows XP Script Center Repository

Visit the TechNet Script Center repository for Windows XP >

Not an IT professional? Troubleshoot Windows 7 at Microsoft Answers.