I am using XP Pro, and have been since RC1 stage... and have not looked back since. I liked the look and feel of XP from day one, and the stability is a 100x improvement over the 9x code. I ran across a Blue Screen in XP once, but after making sure I had the latest device drivers, it has been solid since (almost a year).

The security and stability features also make XP a better choice for kids' use. Under 9x, system files are not protected, so any unintentional file deletions and hung apps have access to the System32 folder and bring down the OS. Thus 9x is inherently unstable. Under XP, kids can be assigned 'Restricted User' rights, and they can't install, uninstall or have access to System Files.

In a network environment, XP is so much more 'aware'. It automatically detects any Internet Connection Sharing hosts and connects to it, and provides for an NT secure environment.

It erks me to see IT consultants who get used to one particular OS, and forego looking at newer OSs because 'they are comfortable with what works'. I am always amazed that in the IT field where it is in a constant state of flux with newer programs out about every 2 years and newer hardware moving in accordance with Moore's Law, that a lot of IT people don't like to change things much.

I would rather sit there and watch my fingernails grow, than go back to using Windows 9x. I just can't wait for the final .NET Server and the anticipated Longhorn with the new 'Yukon' technology and file system.



Last edited by obi1 at Jul 27 2002, 10:43 PM