Is Your PC Ready for Windows XP?

Find out instantly by using the new interactive test at PCWorld.com.

Kevin McKean

Elsewhere in this issue we address the question of whether you should upgrade your PC to Microsoft's new Windows XP operating system. First, though, let's tackle a simpler question. Can your PC even handle XP? An easy way to find out is with the Windows XP Readiness Test at PCWorld.com.

Created in association with our partners at PC Pitstop, the XP Readiness Test checks to see if your PC has enough muscle for the new OS, and also whether your programs have known or potential conflicts with XP.

The result is a report like the one at right. For each of six attributes--memory, clock speed, hard drive, video capability, BIOS, and operating system--the test shows whether your machine can handle XP easily (a green check mark), barely (a yellow question mark), or not at all (a red stop sign). It explains briefly the reasons for the score, and invites you to click "More info" for a fuller account.

If the problem is inadequate memory or disk space, you can click to "Check latest prices" on the cost of an upgrade, using PCWorld.com's Product Finder price comparison engine.

We hope you'll agree that the Windows XP Readiness Test represents a step up in online service. Please feel free to send me your comments, positive or negative, at eddir@pcworld.com.

Want to Rate This Issue? Do it between October 3 and October 31--you could win $500. You'll need your subscriber number from the mailing label to take this survey online. The Web site explains the official rules and also how to participate in the drawing if you're not a subscriber.

A Day to Remember

As this issue goes to press, everyone at PC World is still reeling from the terrorist attacks on the United States. While no employees were killed or injured, we lost friends and colleagues--like PR pro Mark Bingham, who may have helped stop one of the hijacked planes. We know many of you suffered greatly too.

On a brighter note, people in the high-tech community offered speedy aid. A few also scrambled to withdraw inappropriate advertisements, like PowerQuest, which dropped an ad (which had run for nearly two years) because it included photos of a collapsing building.

With this issue, we send condolences to all readers, advertisers, and colleagues who suffered, and share with them a desire to end such violence forever.