Pros: Best Microsoft Operating system, I've had no major problems with XP. Excellent GUI for beginners and advanced users. with lower amounts of RAM and the graphical settings at max it does slow down considerably but it's decent. It picks up compatible software and devices with no problems. - A lot of great software and games for this OS - Easy operating system to install

Cons: - anti-virus software is bloated and takes up a lot of processing power - themes are limited and aren't that appealing - you can always download new ones though

Overall Review: Its not linux but it is a great operating system - the xp professional 64 bit version also is able to pick up 4 gigs of RAM - If you're like me and like a fast running computer make sure you have 1-2 gigs of RAM for this OS