Mastering Windows XP

Here's the insider knowledge you need to make the most of Microsoft's powerful new home OS, whether you're upgrading from Windows 98 or Me, or moving straight to XP. Combining a full-color graphical treatment of essential XP skills with detailed discussion of the whys behind Windows configuration, this comprehensive guide delivers full coverage of every topic from installation to networking. Whether you're using XP on a desktop computer or a notebook, you'll find the information you need to master XP, networking, and the Internet.

Coverage includes:

* Upgrade from Windows 98/Me or perform a clean installation

* Use XP's multiple-user technology

* Customize Windows

* Install, remove, and run programs

* Share files-but keep your private files secure

* Add hardware, install drivers, and optimize XP

* Connect your computer or network securely to the Internet

* Send secure e-mail

* Chat using text, voice, and video

* Control your office PC remotely

* Give or get help via the Internet

* Send and receive faxes

* Enjoy audio, video, and DVDs

* Burn your own CDs

* Download pictures, capture video, and edit your own movies

* Build a home network

Includes full-color, visual instruction of Windows XP's key skills. In minutes, you'll learn how to record a CD, set up an Internet connection, use XP's powerful System Restore feature, install hardware drivers, and much more.

CD Description

A fully searchable electronic copy of the book plus valuable Windows utilities, including e-book software; MP3 ripping, encoding, and playing tools; and evaluation versions of DVD players, image-manipulation software, compression utilities, Internet-security software, and more.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Essential Skills to Windows XP Home Edition

Part I: Up and Running with Windows XP Home Edition

Chapter 1: Introducing Windows XP Home Edition

Chapter 2: Installing Windows XP

Chapter 3: Getting Started with Windows

Chapter 4: Customizing Your Desktop

Chapter 5: Installing, Removing, and Running Programs

Chapter 6: Managing Your Files and Folders

Chapter 7: Making the Most of the Bundled Programs

Chapter 8: Finding Help to Solve Your Windows Problems

Part II: Administering and Troubleshooting Windows

Chapter 9: Managing Users and Accounts

Chapter 10: Sharing and File Types

Chapter 11: Managing Your Disks and Drives

Chapter 12: Working with the Registry

Chapter 13: Installing, Configuring, and Managing Printers and Fonts

Chapter 14: Managing Hardware, Drivers, and Power

Chapter 15: Using Windows on a Portable Computer

Chapter 16: Troubleshooting, Optimizing, and Dual-Booting Windows

Part III: Communications, the Internet, and the Web

Chapter 17: Connecting to the Internet

Chapter 18: Surfing the Web with Internet Explorer

Chapter 19: Using Address Book

Chapter 20: E-mail with Outlook Express

Chapter 21: Reading News with Outlook Express

Chapter 22: Instant Messaging with Windows Messenger

Chapter 23: Faxing and Telephony

Chapter 24: Remote Desktop Connection and Remote Assistance

Chapter 25: Sharing and Conferencing with NetMeeting

Chapter 26: Publishing Information to the Web

Part IV: Audio, Video, and Games

Chapter 27: Windows Media Player

Chapter 28: Working with Pictures and Videos

Chapter 29: Burning CDs

Chapter 30: Playing Games on Windows XP

Part V: Networking Windows XP

Chapter 31: Understanding Windows Networking

Chapter 32: Building a Home or Home-Office Network

Chapter 33: Sharing Resources on Your Network

Appendix: Windows Basics

Index