OK, first thing first, if you have decided to delve into XP, get the professional version. There is only one activation key, and you don't have to register your software or re-register it when you upgrade your hardware. Also, I have heard of numerous cases where the Blue screen of death displays it's grim visage in XP home edition, when professional is as solid as a rock. There are numerous hardware and software issues with XP home which are just unheard of in XP professional. It's a tad more expensive, but most definitely worth it!