What Are the Requirements to Run Windows XP?

by Anthony Brandt

Overview

Windows XP was Microsoft's successor to Windows 98 and Windows 2000 Professional, and was released on October 25, 2001. Two main editions, Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional, are available, and both editions have the same minimum system requirements. These requirements are easily met by recently built PCs.
Processor Speed

Windows XP requires a 233 MHz Pentium processor or equivalent to run XP, but a 300 MHz processor is recommended.

RAM

At least 64MB of memory are required, but 128MB are recommended.
Hard Disk Space

Windows XP requires 1.5 gigabytes of hard drive space.
Video and Sound

A video card, a monitor capable of Super VGA (800 by 600 pixels), a sound card and speakers are all required.
Disk Drive

A CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive is required.
Keyboard and Mouse

A keyboard and mouse are necessary to operate Windows XP.