Older computers may not be capable of handling Windows XP. Here are Microsoft's recommendations: Here's What You Need to Use Windows XP Professional * PC with 300 megahertz or higher processor clock speed recommended; 233 MHz minimum required (single or dual processor system);* Intel Pentium/Celeron family, or AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family, or compatible processor recommended * 128 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher recommended (64 MB minimum supported; may limit performance and some features) * 1.5 gigabytes (GB) of available hard disk space* * Super VGA (800 600) or higher-resolution video adapter and monitor * CD-ROM or DVD drive * Keyboard and Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device