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Windows XP Embedded FAQ
What is Windows XP Embedded?
Windows XP Embedded is an operating system and development platform in componentized form, designed to build more advanced smart, connected, and service-oriented embedded devices. Here’s a quick look at a few Windows XP Embedded features and benefits:
  • Connectivity
    Componentized version of Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Embedded enables developers to choose from more than 12,000 individual feature components to maximize functionality in a reduced footprint.

  • Confidence
    Reduce time-to-market by using familiar development tools like Visual Studio® and working with commodity PC hardware and combining desktop applications, drivers, and services.

    The Windows XP Embedded operating system software includes up-to-date multimedia and Web browsing capabilities and contains extensive device support.

  • Latest Embedded-Enabling Capabilities
    Includes support for multiple boot, storage, deployment, and management technologies.

  • Cost-Effective
    The Windows Embedded Studio tools streamline the end-to-end development process and enable developers to rapidly configure, build, and deploy smart designs with rich applications.

  • Community
    When you develop with Windows Embedded products, you have access to an active development community and partner ecosystem to ensure you not only get your device to market faster but also build profitable lines of business.
What are the security features?
Windows XP Embedded incorporates Windows XP Professional security features and adds support for run-time management and servicing.
  • Automatically enabled Windows Firewall makes it easier for you to open and close certain ports, based on the network topology to be deployed.
  • Internet Explorer® increases Web browsing security with features such as pop-up blocking and warnings about potentially harmful downloads
  • Recompiled features that increase memory-protecting capabilities and support for hardware-enforced “No Execute” (NX)
Contact a Microsoft Windows Embedded Authorized Distributor in your area or download a free 4-month trial version of Windows XP Embedded now.

A CD version by mail is also available from this link for a nominal charge.
What does Windows XP Embedded cost and how do I buy it?
A 4-month fully functional trial is available at no cost. Download today.

The retail value of a licensed copy of Windows XP Embedded is $995 USD.

Working with a Partner early in your development cycle can reduce your development costs. Therefore, Microsoft recommends these four basic steps to buying Windows XP Embedded:
  • Evaluate the operating system and tools for free
  • Talk to a distribution partner
  • Purchase development tools
  • Acquire runtime licenses for commercial shipment
For a detailed description of the four steps, go to “License an Operating System and Ship Your Device”
What are the workstation requirements for developing in Windows XP Embedded?
A complete chart listing necessary workstation elements is available here

What is the difference between Windows XP Professional and Windows XP Embedded?
Microsoft Windows XP Embedded is a componentized version of the Microsoft Windows XP Professional operating system. The major difference between them is that Windows XP Embedded is engineered specifically to support embedded devices and their manufacturers. More information about their differences is found in this White Paper.

How do I update Windows XP Embedded device images?
Windows XP Embedded makes it easier for enterprises and OEMs to verify that operating system files are always up-to-date. The operating system supports:
  • Microsoft System Management Server (SMS)
    Enables SMS to monitor and manage software updates for Windows XP Embedded. As SMS updates software on the network, a Windows XP Embedded device can automatically receive updates. SMS is designed for use in larger organizations. Learn more about SMS.

  • Microsoft Software Update Services (SUS)
    Provides administrators the ability to proactively deploy critical updates to Windows XP Embedded based devices.

  • Device Update Agent (DUA)
    Enables administrators to update a Windows XP Embedded image remotely from a server. Learn more about DUA.

  • What is Real Time and where can I found more information about real time on XPe?
    Real-time performance is essential for the time-critical responses required in high-performance embedded applications. With third party extensions, Venturcom RTX and TenAsys INtime, Windows XP Embedded can meet the needs of these real-time applications.
These two articles explain more about Real Time:
What is the difference between Windows XP Embedded and Windows Embedded Standard?
Windows Embedded Standard is the next generation of Windows XP Embedded. Click here to see the key differences or read more about Windows Embedded Standard in this White Paper.