XP: Simple and stylish, but at a cost

Windows XP looks and feels much like Windows 95. So why upgrade?

The main reason is under the bonnet. Windows XP uses a system that is regarded as very reliable. No longer will we be faced with regular crashes.

The system is easy to set up: put a CD in the slot and enter various details. Then a screen appears with the family toolbar and start button at the bottom. The new graphics are green and cool.

Most manufacturers of printers, scanners and digital cameras have already developed Windows XP drivers, and others can be downloaded from the internet - though that will be an unexpected hassle for many non-technical users.

The main difference from previous Windows versions appears when you press the start button. Instead of a list of all programs you can use, only the programs you use most frequently appear. There are many security features against hacking and viruses, though these need regular updates.

But many families who habitually load one copy of Windows on several PCs will find Windows XP very expensive because it can be loaded on only one.