Not all OS accessories are installed with a clean installation of Windows XP. The OS accessories added also depends on the version of Windows that you are installing.

After you install Windows XP, you may need to add additional accessories or just upgrade to the latest versions. Pre-installation tasks include gathering the OS accessories so they are readily available to add after installing Windows XP.

Some of the common OS accessories that you might want to consider installing include:

• DirectX

• Backup (XP Home)
• Media Player

Essential Application

Applications allow you to take advantage of the hardware installed on a system and allow you to do more on your computer. For example, if you have a DVD player on your computer, a DVD player application will allow you to fully utilize this hardware component.

After performing a clean installation of Windows, there will be no applications installed. Post installation tasks, therefore, include installing essential applications. You need to determine which applications are essential and assemble the software so you can readily install them when completing post installation tasks.

Essential applications will vary depending on the hardware in a computer and the tasks you want to be able to perform. If you plan to do word processing, Microsoft Office may be an essential application. Conversely, if you plan to use your computer for digital imaging, photo editing software may be top on your list.

Typically, essential applications will include include:

• AntiVirus/Spyware software

• CD/DVD Burning software
• DVD Player Applications
• Office Suite

Most of these applications (aside from anti-spyware) must be purchased and are available on CD. Microsoft Office is usually included with the purchase of a new computer. Some applications can be downloaded from the Internet so you may want to obtain them prior to installing Windows.

Alternatively, some applications can be downloaded after. Keep in mind though that Windows should have all the required updates installed and a firewall should be enabled before going on the Internet.

If you plan on installing any older applications you should also visit the vendor’s web site to verify that the software is compatible with Windows XP.