Windows XP All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies (For Dummies (Computers)) [Kindle Edition]

While the nine separate indexes (one at the end of each included "book") will annoy you--the unified one at the back of this book is much easier to find and use--Leonhard's style will compensate. He's very good at explaining how to do what Windows XP was meant to do, up to a certain level. Want to add a music file to a Windows Media Player playlist? There's a procedure for that. Want to cancel AOL because you can't stand it? He explains how. He does not, however, provide detail on more complicated jobs like setting up a cable modem or dealing with the specific security risk posed by Universal Plug and Play. Overall, this is a nicely written, friendly book that covers Windows XP well, but to a limited depth. --David Wall

Topics covered: Microsoft Windows XP for home users, particularly novices. Windows XP fundamentals (like windows and the mouse pointer), customisation, Internet tools (including Outlook Express and Internet Explorer), America Online (AOL), Microsoft Network (MSN), printers, small networks, and Internet connectivity are all addressed.

That’s when you’ll be grateful to have nine books about Windows XP in one — Windows XP All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies, Second Edition.  It replaces a whole shelf of reference books and covers

• Windows XP basics
• Customization
• The Internet
• Internet Explorer
• Microsoft Network
• Hardware
• Multimedia
• Windows Media Center
• Wired and wireless networks

Fully updated with the latest information on Microsoft’s improved security features, the newest on multimedia applications and Windows Media Center, and plenty of additional stuff to help you decide about broadband Internet connections, this edition of Windows XP All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies makes Windows XP manageable.   It helps you

• Get started with Windows XP, search for files, use shortcuts, deal with common problems, and take advantage of built-in help
• Customize your desktop, menus, icons, and startup programs
• Protect your PC by using Windows Firewall, appropriate virus protection, and other security measures
• Compare browsers, connect to the Internet, choose the right e-mail program, and manage newsgroups and chats
• Work with digital images, download and play music, burn CDs, find out about digital camcorders, and create movies with Movie Maker
• Decide whether a Media Center PC is right for you
• Create a home network and troubleshoot any problems that come up

With thumbtabs that make it easy to find what you’re looking for and the famous For Dummies cheat sheet in the front, this book is designed to make life with Windows XP a lot easier, happier, safer, and a whole lot more fun.