I used to be a die hard linux user, I still like it but M$ has really done it this time, I think XP is the best and most stable os that I have ever used. I have been using it for over 2 months and I have yet to have a proggie crash on me. Its built in cd burning is very nice because you dont have to open a program every time that you burn (small time saver but it comes in handy) IMHO the reliability far surpasses that of NT and 2k.

As far as the program compatibility goes, I have came across a few programs that would not work (mostly game emulators) but with the built in program compatibility wizard it fixed it in no time flat. The one thing that you do want to watch out for is that the boot disk that it makes is just DOS no tools at all.

You may want to try going to <a href="http://www.bootdisk.com" target="_blank">www.bootdisk.com</a> and making an old windows 98 boot disk.

The "crayola" appearance may look childish, but it is much easier on the eyes.

I say if your machine can handle it go for it