Although new generations of operating systems are constantly emerging, there is a classic version that can still be found in many corners today, and it is Windows XP.
Why Old Computers Still Run XP
The old computers in many units and factories also have special equipment. Their hardware configuration is relatively low and they can only run the XP system smoothly. These devices often run specific industrial control software or management programs. The software developers may have stopped updating. The cost of migrating to new systems is very high and there are compatibility risks.
For example, there are some old medical instruments in hospitals, multimedia classroom computers in schools, and ATM backend systems in banks. Their core programs are specially developed for the XP era. For these organizations, maintaining existing stable operations is their top priority, so continuing to use XP has become the most practical choice.
Dominance at its peak
According to historical data released by the market research organization Net Applications, which covers a certain period of time, Windows XP reached the peak of its market share in January 2007. At this stage, the global share value was as high as 76.1%. Judging from the data presented, this shows that during that special period, three out of every four computers used for personal use were using this specific system on their hosts.
This dominance lasted for about 11 years, from its release in 2001 until its market share was greatly surpassed by Windows 7 in 2012. Its long life cycle and extremely high popularity have made it an iconic symbol in the history of personal computer development, carrying memories shared by a generation of users.
Core Values of SP3 Version
The final major update package released by Microsoft in 2008 was Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3). It was not a brand-new system, but a cumulative patch collection that integrated all security updates and functional improvements from the system's release to 2008.
As far as users are concerned, installing the SP3 version shows that the system has reached the final state of XP in terms of security, stability and compatibility. It has patched hundreds of vulnerabilities that were scattered in the past and covered some key performance optimizations. It is the best choice for users who pursue stable operation or old hardware.
Suitable for installation and nostalgic scenes
For individual users, installing original XP SP3 in a virtual machine is a safe and convenient nostalgic way. Users can use software such as VMware or VirtualBox to create a virtual XP environment within a modern operating system to run classic old games or professional software that cannot work properly on the new system.
Some enthusiasts will also deliberately collect old hardware, such as Pentium 4 processors and computers with 512MB of memory, and then install the original XP system on them, in order to pursue the kind of retro experience that can bring an original feeling. Such "retro computing" has become a niche hobby owned by a niche group of people, allowing users to relive the feeling they had when operating computers twenty years ago.
Obtain and verify the original image
The most reliable source is the VOL (Volume Licensing) version of the image that Microsoft officially released to volume licensing customers that year. These image files generally have specific verification information, such as the SHA1 value. After downloading, users can check it with the help of verification tools to ensure that the file is complete and has not been tampered with.
Many of the so-called "lite versions" or "optimized versions" of XP circulating on the Internet are very likely to be embedded with unnecessary software or even malicious code. If you are pursuing purity and stability for collection or use, finding and verifying the original MSDN ISO image is the safest choice.
Facing modern security challenges
We need to be soberly aware that, as a system that has long ceased official support, XP is facing serious security threats. Microsoft terminated all support for XP on April 8, 2014, which means that it will no longer provide any security patch updates.
In the current network environment, if a computer with XP installed is directly connected to the Internet, the risk is extremely high, and it can easily become a target and broiler for hackers. Therefore, even if you use it, you should try your best to run it in an isolated LAN, or only use it in a disconnected environment to avoid major risks.
Do you still remember the first time you used Windows XP? Or do you still have an XP computer still functioning around you? Welcome to share your experiences and opinions in the comment area. If you feel that this article has helped you relive some history, you might as well give it a like or share it with friends who also have that memory.
