Windows 2000/XP OS Install Guide

 

Windows 2000 Professional Install Guide



Introduction


After many requests for this information, I have drafted this guide to help.
If you wish to use FDISK before hand, check out this guide.
If you wish to Multi-Boot, check out this guide.
If you cannot configure your system to boot from a CD-ROM (DVD) drive, you must first create boot floppy setup disks and configure your system to boot from those newly created disks rather than CD-ROM.
The utilities to do so is located on the Windows 2000 CD under the directory /BOOTDISK. Select either MAKEBOOT.EXE for DOS or MAKEBT32.EXE if running from Windows.

1) Windows Setup Screen: (Image 1.1)



Shall we begin?
After configuring the system for booting from a CD, the Windows Setup screen appears.
At this point, Setup is loading the driver files it needs to continue with installation.

2) Welcome to Setup: (Image 1.2)

 

The Welcome to Setup screen appears with the option of Continuing Setup, Repair a previous installation, or Quitting.
Press ENTER to Continue Setup, R to Repair, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

3) Windows 2000 Licensing Agreement: (Image 1.3)

The Windows 2000 Licensing Agreement screen, otherwise known as EULA, displays the legal in's and out's of this particular software package.
You may press F8 to signify that you agree with the terms, hit ESC if you do not agree and PAGE UP or PAGE DOWN to scroll through each screen. Note: If you do not agree to the terms, setup will quit and reboot the system.

4) Hard drive partition information: (Image 1.4)

Hard drive partition information is now displayed. This varies with each systems hardware configuration.
This example already has a partition defined. I will choose not to use this and create a new one by pressing D. You may skip this and the next few steps if you do not have any partitions defined.
At this point, the options include pressing ENTER to Install on the selected partition, D to Delete the selected partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

5) Warning screen: (Image 1.5)

After pressing D to delete the selected partition, a warning screen appears explaining the pitfalls of deleting it. This particular screen only appears when the partition selected to be deleted is formatted as a bootable system partition. Other partitions will display the next screen.
I want this to happen, so I press ENTER to continue.
The options include pressing ENTER to continue, or ESC to Cancel.

6) Confirmation screen: (Image 1.6)

A confirmation screen that displays the logical drive, what file system the partition is currently using, the size in MB and controller information.
Options include L to Delete the partition and ESC to Cancel the action.

7) No partitions have been previously defined: (Image 1.7)

If no partitions have been previously defined, this screen will be displayed. You may section your hard drive in as many partitions as you wish by selecting C to Create a Partition and then entering in a value less then the total available. Here, I will Create a Partition in the highlighted, unused portion.
Select the partition you wish to install to using the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys.
Press ENTER to use the highlighted partition and Install, C to Create a Partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

8) Enter in the partition size: (Image 1.8)

Enter in the partition size in MB within the displayed minimum and maximum. I chose the default or maximum available here.
You may choose ENTER to Create the new partition or ESC to Cancel the action.

9) Continue to create partitions: (Image 1.9)

Continue to create partitions until all space is used or the configuration meets your requirements. Note: a small portion will be unavailable to partition. This is normal. In this example, it is 4 MB.
I chose drive C: to install the Operating system.
You may choose ENTER to Install to the selected partition, D to Delete the highlighted Partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

10) Format the partition: (Image 1.10)

Since this OS supports NTFS, format the partition with it. If you do not, many folder and file security features will be unavailable. Note: If you are dual booting your system, a previous OS will not be able to read the local information. This is a fact with Windows 9x and Me. If you have a requirement to view this partition from another OS installed on the system, do not format it as NTFS. Also, the boot partition must be formatted with FAT32 if you wish to dual boot. I have found no problems accessing a NTFS partition mapped as a network drive from an older OS.
Select what format you wish to use by pressing the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys.
Press ENTER to confirm your selection and Continue or ESC to Cancel.

11) Setup formats the partition: (Image 1.11)

Watch the progress bar as Setup formats the partition, or get up and get a soda. It may take awhile.

12) Creating File List: (Image 1.12)

Setup is now figuring out what files to copy over to the hard drive.

13) Setup copies various files: (Image 1.13)

After the partition is finished formatting, Setup copies various files to support booting from the hard drive and continue on.

14) Creating various information files: (Image 1.14)

Setup then creates various information files required to continue on with setup.

15) Press ENTER to Restart (Image 1.15)

The first reboot and the end of the blue background has arrived. If you are impatient, press ENTER to Restart before the 15 seconds expire.
ENTER to Restart the Computer is the only option available.

16) Windows 2000 boot screen: (Image 2.1)



The new Windows 2000 boot screen is displayed.

17) Windows 2000: (Image 2.2)

Sit back. It may be awhile.

18) Setup Wizard: (Image 2.3)

The Setup Wizard will be displayed. SelectNext to continue on.

19) Installing Devices: (Image 2.4)

Windows 2000 will begin installing devices, such as "mouse and keyboard," even though you have already been using them. :)

20) Region and Input Languages: (Image 2.5)

A little while later, you will be prompted with options of configuring your Region and Input Languages. The default was fine for me, so I selected Next.
Options include Customize buttons plus the standard Back and Next.

21) Enter in your name: (Image 2.6)


Enter in your name and optional Organization information, then select the Next button.

22) 25 digit Product Key: (Image 2.7)

Thought you could get away from it? Think again.
Enter your unique 25 digit Product Key that came with your CD, then select the Next button.

23) Enter a Computer name and an Administrator 

Password: (Image 2.8)


The "suggested" name for the computer is always really whacked out. Choose one that meets your needs.
Enter an Administrator Password now. It is very important that you keep this information safe and remember what it is!
"01Pa$$word" is not a good choice. Think of something secure and never lose or forget it.

24) Date, Time and Time Zone: (Image 2.9)

Configure the proper information for the Date, Time and Time Zone here.

25) Network Setup: (Image 2.10)

Networking information is now setting up.

26) Network Settings Dialog: (Image 3.1)



The Network Settings Dialog is next. Under usual circumstances, the Typical settings are fine, but I never choose them so I can poke around under the hood. I selected Custom here.
Choose your method and select the Next button.
Choose your method and select the Next button.

27) Custom settings: (Image 3.2)

TCP/IP Properties contains the standard options. Adjust them for your particular needs as required. For now, I kept the default settings. Basically, it is using DHCP to configure TCP/IP.
Select the Advanced button to further configure your TCP/IP options.
In the custom settings, many options are abound. I cannot go into all of them here, so I will leave everything as default.

28) Workgroup or Computer Domain? (Image 3.3)

Workgroup or Computer Domain, that is the question. I am not going to set up this system to connect to a domain controller, so I will place it as a member of a workgroup.
Please, change "WORKGROUP" to something else. I hate defaults. :)
Select the Next button after making your choice and entering your configuration.

29) Copying files: (Image 3.4)

Installation of all files and components may take awhile. Sit back and watch the pretty bar wander across the screen. :)

30) Final Tasks: (Image 3.5)

After the files finish the transfer, setup performs final tasks. including setting up the start menu and cleaning up temporary directories.

31) Setup Finished: (Image 3.6)

The system will reboot after selecting the Finish button on this dialog.

32) Windows 2000 is starting up: (Image 4.1)



The moment we have all been waiting for, Windows 2000 Professional is starting up "for the first time." Remember that quoted statement with Windows 95 setup?

33) Network Wizard: (Image 4.2)

Windows 2000 Network ID Wizard is displayed with the option of canceling or selecting Next.
I chose Next here.

34) Click Back: (Image 4.3)

At this point, an initial option was not offered.
Click the Back button to see it.
 

35) Choose your option: (Image 4.4)

Here, I choose to select the second option of The computer is part of a home network and not part of a business network.
Does it make any difference? Not sure, but it makes me feel better.
After choosing your option, select Next to continue.
 

36) Auto Login: (Image 4.5)

Windows 2000 offers the ability for you, right now, to create a user account, password it, and "always login" as this person.
This is what I "usually" do as I have no worries about anyone in the house cracking the system, but if your circumstances warrant it, I would not have auto login enabled. However, you should still create a "normal" user account and not always use the Administrator account for daily activities.
NEVER leave an account unpassworded.
 

37) Windows 2000 Desktop: (Image 4.6)



Since I chose to auto login, I did not get the pop up dialog asking for password.
The desktop is now displayed!
I hope this gave you some insight as how "easy" it really is to install Windows 2000.



Windows 2000 Professional and Server 

SP4 Service Configurations





Notes for a happier Computer and User

  • Before disabling ANY service, check out the information I have about each service by clicking on the name.
  • Service settings are global, meaning changes apply to all users.
  • Still unsure? Put your setting to "manual" or the listing under "Safe." Manual allows Windows 2000 to start the service when it needs to (or when ever it feels like it), but not at boot up. NOTE: Depending on your configuration, not all services will start when required while in Manual mode. If you find you need a service, place it in Automatic.
  • After adjusting your service settings, reboot your computer.
  • All of these services are "Standard" with Windows 2000 Pro and Server using Service Pack 4. If you discover something other than these listed here running, they were installed by another program. I have listed a few of the more common ones for Windows XP. Most, if not all, are valid for Windows 2000, also. View the Info!
  • Disabling all of the "unneeded services" frees up 12-70 MB of RAM, depending on system.
  • Before posting your question on the forums, see if your question has been addressed in the FAQ!
  • Viewing Instructions: If the table is hard to read, please check out your viewing options.

Table Header Information

  • The columns are sortable. Select the column header to sort by that field.
  • Display Name ~ is how it is displayed in the Services Control Panel
  • Process Name ~ name of the Process running in the background (displays in Task Manager by hitting Ctrl+Shift+Esc).
  • Dependencies ~ describe what services this service needs for proper functionality.
  • DEFAULT Server ~ this is what runs by default on Windows 2000 Server.
  • DEFAULT Pro ~ this is what runs by default on Windows 2000 Professional.
  • "SAFE" Configuration ~ this is the configuration that 95% of the people will be able to use with little or no side effects. It will also minimizes the amount of "errors" that is reported in the Event Viewer. This does NOT guarantee it will work for you, but if this scares you, this configuration would be a good starting point. Note: This is not for Windows 2000 Server in a corporate environment. Every network is different. Only you can decide what you need.

Configuration Information

  • Automatic ~ With a service in this state, it will start at boot time. Some services, when no longer required, will also automatically stop when not needed. However, this is very rare. If you find you do not need a service, place it into Manual or Disabled.
  • Manual ~ Manual mode allows Windows to start a service when needed. However, very few services will start up when required in Manual mode. If you find you need a service, place it into Automatic.
  • Disabled ~ This setting will stop a service from starting, even if needed. Errors in the Event Viewer will show up complaining of that fact. Some services, while Disabled, will constantly complain. However, this situation is taken care of if placed in Manual. The service descriptions identifies those that should be in Manual vice Disabled.

Black Viper's Windows 2000 Professional and Server SP4 

Service Configurations

Display Name Process Name DEFAULT Server DEFAULT Pro "SAFE"
Alerterservices.exeAutomaticManualDisabled
Application Management services.exe Manual Manual Manual
Automatic Updates svchost.exe Automatic Automatic Automatic
Background Intelligent Transfer Service svchost.exe Manual Manual Manual
Boot Information Negotiation Layertcpsvcs.exeNot InstalledNot Available
ClipBookclipsrv.exeManualManualDisabled
COM+ Event System svchost.exeManualManualManual
Computer Browserservices.exeAutomaticAutomatic Disabled
DHCP Client services.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
DHCP Server tcpsvcs.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Distributed File SystemDfssvc.exeAutomaticNot Available
Distributed Link Tracking Clientservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticManual
Distributed Link Tracking Serverservices.exeManualNot Available
Distributed Transaction Coordinatormsdtc.exeAutomaticManualManual
DNS Client services.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
DNS Server dns.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Event Logservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Fax Servicefaxsvc.exeManualManualDisabled
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
File Replicationntfrs.exeManualNot Available
FTP Publishing Serviceinetinfo.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
IIS Admin Serviceinetinfo.exeAutomaticNot InstalledNot Installed
Indexing Servicecisvc.exeManualManualDisabled
Internet Authentication Servicesvchost.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Internet Connection Sharingsvchost.exeManualManualManual
Intersite Messagingismserv.exeDisabledNot Available
IPSEC Policy Agentlsass.exe Manual Manual Manual
Kerberos Key Distribution Centerlsass.exeDisabledNot Available
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
License Logging Servicellssrv.exeAutomaticNot Available
Logical Disk Managerservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service dmadmin.exe Manual Manual Manual
Message Queuingmqsvc.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
Messengerservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticDisabled
Net Logon lsass.exeManualManual Disabled
NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharingmnmsrvc.exeManualManualDisabled
Network Connectionssvchost.exeManualManualAutomatic
Network DDEnetdde.exeManualManual Disabled
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
Network DDE DSDMnetdde.exeManualManual Disabled
Network News Transport Protocol (NNTP)inetinfo.exeNot InstalledNot Available
NT LM Security Support Providerlsass.exeManualManualManual
On-line Presentation Broadcastnslservice.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Performance Logs and Alertssmlogsvc.exeManualManual Disabled
Plug and Playservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Print Server for Macintochsfmprint.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Print Spoolerspoolsv.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Protected Storageservices.exeAutomaticAutomatic Automatic
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
QoS RSVPrsvp.exeManualManualDisabled
Remote Access Auto Connection Managersvchost.exeManualManual Manual
Remote Access Connection Managersvchost.exeManualManual Manual
Remote Procedure Call (RPC)svchost.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locatorlocator.exeManualManualManual
Remote Registry Serviceregsvc.exeAutomaticAutomaticDisabled
Remote Storage EngineRsEng.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Remote Storage FileRsFsa.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Remote Storage MediaRsSub.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
Remote Storage NotificationRsFsa.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Removable Storagesvchost.exeAutomaticAutomatic Disabled
RIP Listenersvchost.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
Routing and Remote Accesssvchost.exeDisabledDisabledDisabled
RunAs Serviceservices.exeAutomaticAutomatic Disabled
Security Accounts Managerlsass.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Serverservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP)inetinfo.exeAutomaticNot InstalledNot Installed
Simple TCP/IP Services tcpsvcs.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
Single Instance Storage Grovelergrovel.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Site Server ILS Serviceinetinfo.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Smart CardSCardSvr.exeManualManualDisabled
Smart Card HelperSCardSvr.exeManualManualDisabled
SNMP Servicesnmp.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
SNMP Trap Servicesnmptrap.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
System Event Notificationsvchost.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
Task SchedulerMSTask.exeAutomaticAutomatic Automatic
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service services.exeAutomaticAutomaticManual
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
TCP/IP Print Server tcpsvcs.exeNot InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed
Telephonysvchost.exeManualManual Manual
Telnettlntsvr.exeManualManualDisabled
Terminal Servicestermsrv.exeDisabledNot Available
Terminal Services Licensinglserver.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Trivial FTP Daemontftpd.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Uninterruptible Power Supplyups.exeManualManualDisabled
Utility ManagerUtilMan.exeManualManualDisabled
Windows Installermsiexec.exeManualManualManual
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
Windows Internet Name Service (WINS)wins.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Windows Management InstrumentationWinMgmt.exeManualManual Manual
Windows Management Instrumentation Driver Extensionservices.exeManualManualManual
Windows Media Monitor Servicenspmon.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Windows Media Program Servicenspm.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Windows Media Station Servicenscm.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Windows Media Unicast Servicensum.exeNot InstalledNot Available
Windows Timeservices.exeManualManualDisabled
Wireless Configuration svchost.exe Manual Manual Disabled
Display NameProcess NameDEFAULT ServerDEFAULT Pro"SAFE"
Workstationservices.exeAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic
World Wide Web Publishing Serviceinetinfo.exeAutomaticNot InstalledNot Installed


Windows Me Super Tweaks Installation Guide



Top tweaks for a much faster PC.

The following is what I do directly after a clean install of Windows Me. This does not mean that everything I do will work for you. Keeping that in mind and ensure you are fully aware of the risks of tweaking your system before doing so.

1) If you are experiencing "random" slowdowns and "high" CPU usage for no reason, this service is THE most likely cause of the problem. This service is also a major cause of "missing" disk space. System Restore could be taking up 3 GB of space, just on its own.

System Restore creates system snap shots or restore points for returning to at a later time. Every time you install a program or new driver, plus on a schedule, this service creates a "restore point" to roll back to if a problem occurs. This service would have been nice in the Win95 days due to plenty of problems occurring (new DirectX version every 15 minutes) but not required for the "much" more stable WinMe. This is the FIRST thing that I get rid of on a clean installation. If you use this and enjoy it, good for you. I never will. I feel it is faster and less hassle to just install clean. A rather GOOD (and possibly the only) reason to use this "feature" is to roll back your OS after installing an unknown program or testing software. For example: BETA software of any kind. NOTE: If you disable this service, your previous "restore points" will be deleted. If, for what ever reason, you do not want this to happen, do not disable this service.

According to this knowledge base article:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;[LN];Q290700

You could have problems restoring a point created after September 8, 2001. Also, after applying the fix, you cannot restore a point BEFORE September 8, 2001. Have I convinced you of the reliability of this feature, yet?

Get rid of System Restore Service. Where do you find it?



2) Turn off Automatic Updates.

Using default values, WinMe"Automatically" downloads the updates and asks to "install" them. A few reasons why you may think this is unacceptable in your situation:

  • You could have a dial-up connection. If WinMe feels like downloading whenever it wants, it just may not allow you to do what "you" want.
  • You may also:
    • Wish to know what, when and how an update installs BEFORE using any bandwidth.
    • Want to read about the update BEFORE downloading.
    • Want to know WHY you need it and WHAT it fixes.
It is very important that if you decide to disable the Automatic Updates Service, you check the Windows Update site often to ensure the latest critical updates and security patches are installed.
Where do you find it?



3) While you are in the control panel, disable Task Scheduler Service:

4) Adjust the Page File to a respectable level.

Can you get rid of the page file? Yes and no. If you have a boat load of memory (greater than 512 MB) you may be able to function just fine.. Some games REQUIRE a certain amount of swap space to be created to even run, no matter how much RAM is available. Also, under certain conditions, my sound card goes crazy (or does not function) in some games with no swap file (oddly enough, Age of Empires 2). If you decide to test your luck with no swap space or page file, you are on your own. :) Please do not E-Mail me with your war stories about no swap. Every system is different. I usually do not have one "unless something requires it that I am running that day."



If anything, create (preferably on a separate partition), a swap space of constant size. For example, select Custom Size and place 1000 in "Initial" and 1000 in "Maximum" Size boxes, then click Set Button. This will reduce the amount of work needed to dynamically resize the page file, usually when you need it most.
From Fastest to Slowest, these are the configuration you can try:

  • No swap file at all. Some software may fail. You also need "much" memory to do this. Greater than 512 MB.
  • A static swap file on a separate hard drive (and preferably, controller) from Windows and frequently accessed data.
  • A dynamic swap file on a separate hard drive (and preferably, controller) from Windows and frequently accessed data.
  • A static swap file on a separate partition, but on the same physical hard drive as Windows.
  • A dynamic swap file on a separate partition, but on the same physical hard drive as Windows.
  • The Default: A dynamic swap file on the same partition and physical hard drive (usually C:) as Windows.
Benchmark using Unreal Tournament 2003 "Benchmark.exe" and various swap configs:
System = P4 1.8 w/768 MB PC-133 Memory and a GF3
No Swap FileSystem ManagedStatic (1150MB)
No Swap FileSystem ManagedStatic (1150 MB)

As you can see, graphics card benchmarks are "not affected" by the status of a page file in this configuration. Only you can decide if it is worth it to you during game play and on your system.

If you have not already, reboot now.

5) I also remove the desktop picture. Why? Usually, back in the old days, the desktop picture was a ".bmp" which is very uncompressed. Since I do not like a bit map taking up so much memory (from 1.2 to 3 MB per image) I make them go away. Small tiles or .jpg's are better if you just HAVE to have a desktop and not a blank color.

6) Go to the "Add Remove Programs" and click the "Windows Setup Tab." Here, take out all the crap you do not need. Such as "Online Services" and such.

7) Download and install ALL updated drivers from the hardware manufacture sites. I cannot tell you what site you need to go to, but do your computer a favor and get updated drivers for everything.

Reboot again.

8) After updating all my drivers, I remove any excess icons (all of them, basically) from the system tray (lower right). Contrary to popular belief, those little "quick access" icons take up a lot of room.

For example, MS messenger takes up about 3.6 MB just sitting there... not even logged in... Bring it up, select tools, options, then uncheck "load at startup" and uncheck "allow to run in background."
Also, Creatives "AudioHQ" running is REALLY not required.


ICQ's little "Net Detect" sucks up WAY too much memory. Make it go away. Various Quick Tweak icons and even EZCD creator's icon annoys the hell out of me. Make them all go away. If you just HAVE to have that quick access to those programs, place them in the "quick launch bar" (located in the lower left by default, where IE and "Show Desktop" buttons are). The icons will not clutter your desktop and you can easily hit them from any normal windows application. To top it all off, they do not take up memory or resources constantly running in the background. Another plus, this will reduce your boot up time.

9) I run msconfig and get rid of any annoying startup programs that may be hiding from me. If you are not familiar with the operation and features of msconfig, I am not going to go into them here.

10) Defrag the hard drive. Even if WinMe tells you that it does not need to, do it anyway. It has much tolerance for what "needs" to be done and what should be done. After all, if it was really efficient, there would be no need for you to read this page.

Defrag again after installing your applications and games. After that, there should be little need to do it again for awhile unless you delete/uninstall/reinstall a lot of stuff.


This listing is by no means complete, but it does hit on the high points.

Windows XP Home Install Guide

Introduction:
After many requests for this information, I have drafted this guide to help.
If you wish to use FDISK before hand, which is not required, check out this guide.
If you wish to Multi-Boot, check out this guide.
If you cannot configure your system to boot from a CD Rom (DVD) drive, you must first download the boot floppy setup disks from Microsoft at this address:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;q310994
And configure your system to boot from those newly created disks rather than CD Rom.

Important Information

Before the install/reinstallation of Windows XP, I highly recommend that you download Service Pack 3 "for multiple computers" and burn it onto a CD. The download is approximately 316.4MB. If you choose not to do this step, your system could become infected with a virus or worm exploiting the vulnerabilities that Service Pack 3 fixes. I also recommend that you do NOT have your system connected to the Internet until after the installation of Service Pack 3. This means that you cannot activate your XP installation during setup, but you can accomplish that task following a reboot after Service Pack 3 is installed.

1) Shall we begin? (Image 1.1)

Windows Setup Screen

After configuring the system for booting from a CD, the Windows Setup screen appears.
At this point, Setup is loading the driver files it needs to continue with installation.

 

2) Welcome to Setup: (Image 1.2)

Welcome to Setup

The "Welcome to Setup" screen appears with the option of Continuing Setup, Repair a previous installation, or Quitting.
Press ENTER to Continue Setup.
You may also choose R to Repair, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

3) Windows XP Licensing Agreement: (Image 1.3)

Windows XP Licensing Agreement

The "Windows XP Licensing Agreement" screen, otherwise known as "EULA," displays the legal in's and out's of this particular software package.
You may press F8 to signify that you agree with the terms, hit ESC if you do not agree and PAGE UP or PAGE DOWN to scroll through each screen. Note: If you do not agree to the terms, setup will quit and reboot the system.

4) Insert the previous version. (Image 1.4)

Insert the previous version.

As this is an Upgrade, a previous qualifying product is required to be inserted in the CD drive to continue. Even though Microsoft states that "Windows 95" cannot be upgraded to XP Home, the CD is good enough for a clean install.
At this point, the options include pressing ENTER to Continue or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

5) Hard drive partition information: (Image 1.5)

Hard drive partition information

Hard drive partition information is now displayed. This varies with each systems hardware configuration.
This example already has a partition defined. I will choose not to use this and create a new one by pressing D. You may skip this and the next few steps if you do not have any partitions defined.
At this point, the options include pressing ENTER to Install on the selected partition, D to Delete the selected partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

6) Warning screen: (Image 1.6)

Warning screen

After pressing D to delete the selected partition, a warning screen appears explaining the pitfalls of deleting it. This particular screen only appears when the partition selected to be deleted is formatted as a bootable system partition. Other partitions will display the next screen.
I want this to happen, so I press ENTER to continue.
The options include pressing ENTER to continue, or ESC to Cancel.

7) Confirmation screen: (Image 1.7)

Confirmation screen

A confirmation screen that displays the logical drive, what file system the partition is currently using, the size in MB and controller information.
Options include L to Delete the partition and ESC to Cancel the action.

8) No partitions have been previously defined: (Image 1.8)

No partitions have been previously defined

If no partitions have been previously defined, this screen will be displayed. You may section your hard drive in as many partitions as you wish by selecting C to Create a Partition and then entering in a value less then the total available. Here, I will Create a Partition in the highlighted, unused portion.
Select the partition you wish to install to using the UP arrow and DOWN ARROW keys.
Press ENTER to use the highlighted partition and Install, C to Create a Partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

9) Enter in the partition size: (Image 1.9)

Enter in the partition size

Enter in the partition size in MB within the displayed minimum and maximum. I chose the default or maximum available here.
You may choose ENTER to Create the new partition or ESC to Cancel the action.

10) Continue to create partitions: (Image 1.10)

Continue to create partitions

Continue to create partitions until all space is used or the configuration meets your requirements. Note: a small portion will be unavailable to partition. This is normal. In this example, it is 2 MB.
I chose drive C: or Partition1 to install the Operating System.
You may choose ENTER to Install to the selected partition, D to Delete the highlighted Partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

11) Format the partition: (Image 1.11)

Format the partition

Since this OS supports NTFS, format the partition with it. If you do not, many folder and file security features will be unavailable. Note: If you are dual booting your system, a previous OS will not be able to read the local information. This is a fact with Windows 9x and Me. If you have a requirement to view this partition from another OS installed on the system, do not format it as NTFS. Also, the boot partition must be formatted with FAT32 if you wish to dual boot. I have found no problems accessing a NTFS partition mapped as a network drive from an older OS.
Select what format you wish to use by pressing the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys.
Press ENTER to confirm your selection and Continue or ESC to Cancel.

12) Setup formats the partition: (Image 1.12)

Setup formats the partition

Watch the progress bar as Setup formats the partition, or get up and get a soda. It may take awhile.

13) Creating File List: (Image 1.13)

Creating File List

Setup is now figuring out what files to copy over to the hard drive.

14) Setup copies various files: (Image 1.14)

Setup copies various files

After the partition is finished formatting, Setup copies various files to support booting from the hard drive and continue on.

15) Creates various information files: (Image 1.15)

 Creates various information files

Setup then creates various information files required to continue on with setup.

16) Press ENTER to Restart: (Image 1.16)

Press ENTER to Restart

The first reboot and the end of the blue background has arrived. If you are impatient, press ENTER to Restart before the 15 seconds expire.
ENTER to Restart the Computer is the only option available.



17) Windows XP boot screen: (Image 2.1)

Windows XP boot screen

The new Windows XP boot screen is displayed.

18) Windows XP Installation: (Image 2.2)

Windows XP Installation

If you have installed Windows before, this type of screen will look familiar.
Sit back. It may be awhile.

19) Faster and more reliable: (Image 2.3)

Faster and more reliable

Every Windows OS that comes out has the same claim. Faster and better. It is subject to debate whether or not it could get "any worse."

20) Region and Input Languages: (Image 2.4)

Region and Input Languages

A little while later, you will be prompted with options of configuring your Region and Input Languages. The default was fine for me, so I selected Next.
Options include Customize button, Details Button, plus the standard Back and Next.

21) Enter in your Name: (Image 2.5)

Enter in your Name

Enter in your Name and optional Organization information, then select the Next button.

22) 25 digit Product Key: (Image 2.6)

25 digit Product Key

Thought you could get away from it? Think again.
Enter your unique 25 digit Product Key that came with your CD, then select the Next button.

23) Enter a Computer name: (Image 2.7)

Enter a Computer name

The "suggested" name for the computer is always really whacked out. Choose one that meets your needs.
Select Next to Continue.

24) Date, Time and Time Zone: (Image 2.8)

Date, Time and Time Zone

Configure the proper information for the Date, Time and Time Zone here.

25) Network Settings Dialog: (Image 3.1)

Network Settings Dialog

The Network Settings Dialog is next. Under usual circumstances, the Typical settings are fine.
Choose your method and select the Next button.

26) Display Settings Pop-up: (Image 3.2)

Display Settings Popup

Windows XP no longer likes the "default" resolution of 640 x 480 and prompts you of that fact.
Select OK to continue.

27) Please wait: (Image 3.3)

Please wait

800 x 600 is a wonderful thing, however, I chose to have it time out and return to 640 x 480 for this guide.

28) The Welcome Screen: (Image 3.4)

The Welcome Screen

The "Welcome Screen" will now appear while Windows XP Home continues to load in the background.

29) Display Settings Pop-up: (Image 3.5)

Popup balloon

Since the initial screen resolution is set to 640 x 480, a balloon dialog appears. You may click the pop-up balloon to raise the resolution up to 800 x 600 automatically.
For the rest of this guide, I chose to ignore it.

Windows XP Professional Install Guide

Introduction
After many requests for this information, I have drafted this guide to help.
If you wish to use FDISK before hand, check out this guide.
If you wish to Multi-Boot, check out this guide.
If you cannot configure your system to boot from a CD Rom (DVD) drive, you must first download the boot floppy setup disks from Microsoft at this address:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;q310994
and configure your system to boot from those newly created disks rather than CD Rom.

Important Information

Before the install/reinstallation of Windows XP, I highly recommend that you download Service Pack 3 "for multiple computers" and burn it onto a CD. The download is approximately 316.4MB. If you choose not to do this step, your system could become infected with a virus or worm exploiting the vulnerabilities that Service Pack 3 fixes. I also recommend that you do NOT have your system connected to the Internet until after the installation of Service Pack 3. This means that you cannot activate your XP installation during setup, but you can accomplish that task following a reboot after Service Pack 3 is installed.


1) Shall we begin? (Image 1.1)

Windows Setup Screen

After configuring the system for booting from a CD, the Windows Setup screen appears.
At this point, Setup is loading the driver files it needs to continue with installation.

2) Welcome to Setup: (Image 1.2)

Welcome to Setup

The "Welcome to Setup" screen appears with the option of Continuing Setup, Repair a previous installation, or Quitting.
Press ENTER to Continue Setup.
You may also choose R to Repair, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

3) Windows XP Licensing Agreement: (Image 1.3)

Windows XP Licensing Agreement

The "Windows XP Licensing Agreement" screen, otherwise known as "EULA," displays the legal in's and out's of this particular software package.
You may press F8 to signify that you agree with the terms, hit ESC if you do not agree and PAGE UP or PAGE DOWN to scroll through each screen. Note: If you do not agree to the terms, setup will quit and reboot the system.

4) Hard drive partition information: (Image 1.4)

Hard drive partition information

Hard drive partition information is now displayed. This varies with each systems hardware configuration.
This example already has a partition defined. I will choose not to use this and create a new one by pressing D. You may skip this and the next few steps if you do not have any partitions defined.

At this point, the options include pressing ENTER to Install on the selected partition, D to Delete the selected partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

5) Warning screen: (Image 1.5)

Warning screen

After pressing D to delete the selected partition, a warning screen appears explaining the pitfalls of deleting it. This particular screen only appears when the partition selected to be deleted is formatted as a bootable system partition. Other partitions will display the next screen.

I want this to happen, so I press ENTER to continue.

The options include pressing ENTER to continue, or ESC to Cancel.

6) Confirmation screen: (Image 1.6)

Confirmation screen

A confirmation screen that displays the logical drive, what file system the partition is currently using, the size in MB and controller information.
Options include L to Delete the partition and ESC to Cancel the action.

7) No partitions have been previously defined: (Image 1.7)

No partitions have been previously defined

If no partitions have been previously defined, this screen will be displayed. You may section your hard drive in as many partitions as you wish by selecting C to Create a Partition and then entering in a value less then the total available. Here, I will Create a Partition in the highlighted, unused portion.

Select the partition you wish to install to using the UP arrow and DOWN ARROW keys.

Press ENTER to use the highlighted partition and Install, C to Create a Partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

8) Enter in the partition size: (Image 1.8)

Enter in the partition size

Enter in the partition size in MB within the displayed minimum and maximum. I chose the default or maximum available here.

You may choose ENTER to Create the new partition or ESC to Cancel the action.

9) Continue to create partitions: (Image 1.9)

Continue to create partitions

Continue to create partitions until all space is used or the configuration meets your requirements. Note: a small portion will be unavailable to partition. This is normal. In this example, it is 2 MB.

I chose drive C: or Partition1 to install the Operating System.

You may choose ENTER to Install to the selected partition, D to Delete the highlighted Partition, or F3 to Quit and reboot the system.

10) Format the partition: (Image 1.10)

Format the partition

Since this OS supports NTFS, format the partition with it. If you do not, many folder and file security features will be unavailable. Note: If you are dual booting your system, a previous OS will not be able to read the local information. This is a fact with Windows 9x and Me. If you have a requirement to view this partition from another OS installed on the system, do not format it as NTFS. Also, the boot partition must be formatted with FAT32 if you wish to dual boot. I have found no problems accessing a NTFS partition mapped as a network drive from an older OS.

Select what format you wish to use by pressing the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys.

Press ENTER to confirm your selection and Continue or ESC to Cancel.

11) Setup formats the partition: (Image 1.11)

Setup formats the partition

Watch the progress bar as Setup formats the partition, or get up and get a soda. It may take awhile.

12) Creating File List: (Image 1.12)

Creating File List

Setup is now figuring out what files to copy over to the hard drive.

13) Setup copies various files: (Image 1.13)

Setup copies various files

After the partition is finished formatting, Setup copies various files to support booting from the hard drive and continue on.

14) Creates various information files: (Image 1.14)

Creates various information files

Setup then creates various information files required to continue on with setup.

15) Press ENTER to Restart: (Image 1.15)

Press ENTER to Restart

The first reboot and the end of the blue background has arrived. If you are impatient, press ENTER to Restart before the 15 seconds expire.

ENTER to Restart the Computer is the only option available.

16) Windows XP boot screen: (Image 2.1)

Windows XP boot screen 
The new Windows XP boot screen is displayed.

17) Windows XP Installation: (Image 2.2)

Windows XP Installation

If you have installed Windows before, this type of screen will look familiar.
Sit back. It may be awhile.

18) Faster and more reliable: (Image 2.3)

Faster and more reliable

Every Windows OS that comes out has the same claim. Faster and better. It is subject to debate whether or not it could get "any worse."

19) Region and Input Languages: (Image 2.4)

Region and Input Languages

A little while later, you will be prompted with options of configuring your Region and Input Languages. The default was fine for me, so I selected Next.
Options include Customize button, Details Button, plus the standard Back and Next.

20) Enter in your Name: (Image 2.5)

Enter in your Name

Enter in your Name and optional Organization information, then select the Next button.

21) 25 digit Product Key: (Image 2.6)

25 digit Product Key

Thought you could get away from it? Think again.
Enter your unique 25 digit Product Key that came with your CD, then select the Next button.

22) Enter a Computer name and an Administrator Password: (Image 2.7)

Enter a Computer name and an Administrator Password

The "suggested" name for the computer is always really whacked out. Choose one that meets your needs.
Enter an Administrator Password now. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you keep this information safe and remember what it is! "01Pa$$word" is not a good choice. Think of something secure and never lose or forget it.

23) Date, Time and Time Zone: (Image 2.8)

Date, Time and Time Zone

Configure the proper information for the Date, Time and Time Zone here.

24) Network is installing: (Image 2.9)

Network is installing

Wait here while the Network is installing. You could read all the marketing dribble, but I do not recommend it. :)

25) Network Settings Dialog: (Image 3.1)

Network Settings Dialog

The Network Settings Dialog is next. Under usual circumstances, the Typical settings are fine, but I never choose them so I can poke around under the hood. I selected Custom settings here.

Choose your method and select the Next button.

26) Custom settings: (Image 3.2)

Custom settings

In the Custom settings, many options are abound. I cannot go into all of them here, but I will hit on the high points.

27) QoS Packet Scheduler: (Image 3.3)

QoS Packet Scheduler

QoS Packet Scheduler is not required unless your network uses it.

For this system, I will choose to uncheck it.

28) TCP/IP Properties: (Image 3.4)

TCP/IP Properties

TCP/IP Properties contains the standard options. Adjust them for your particular needs as required. For now, I kept the default settings. Basically, it is using DHCP to configure TCP/IP. If you are using a static IP address, enter in the proper information here.

Select the Advanced button to further configure your TCP/IP options.

29) Workgroup or Computer Domain: (Image 3.5)

Workgroup or Computer Domain

Workgroup or Computer Domain, that is the question. I am not going to set up this system to connect to a domain controller, so I will place it as a member of a workgroup.

Please, change "WORKGROUP" to something else. I hate defaults. :)

Select the Next button after making your choice.

30) Install screen: (Image 3.6)

Install screen

The system will reboot after all files have been copied over to the install partition. Now may be a good time to take a break. It may be awhile.

31) Windows XP is starting up: (Image 4.1)

Windows XP is starting up

The moment we have all been waiting for, Windows XP Professional is starting up "for the first time." Remember that quoted statement with Windows 95 setup?

32) Display Settings Pop-up: (Image 4.2)

Display Settings Pop-up

Windows XP no longer likes the "default" resolution of 640 x 480 and prompts you of that fact.
Select OK to continue.

33) Please wait: (Image 4.3)

Please wait

800 x 600 is a wonderful thing, however, I chose to have it time out and return to 640 x 480 for this guide.

34) Login to the Administrator account: (Image 4.4)

Login to the Administrator account

With the "Welcome" screen, you no longer have to hit the "Three Finger Salute" combination of Ctrl+Alt+Delete to login to the Administrator account.

You did remember your password, right?!?

35) Applying computer settings: (Image 4.5)

Applying computer settings

Please wait while the Administrator account is configured "for the first time."
No. I will not mention Windows 95 again...

36) Display Settings Pop-up: (Image 4.6)

Display Settings PopUp

Since the initial screen resolution is set to 640 x 480, a balloon dialog appears. You may click the pop-up balloon to raise the resolution up to 800 x 600 automatically. For the rest of this guide, I chose to ignore it.

Windows XP  Service Configuration


Introduction

This information is valid for all versions of XP x86 (32-bit) running Service Pack 3. XP Pro x64 (64-bit) Service information and Configurations are also online.

Before adjusting your service settings, ensure that you or your system has already installed all updates by "checking now" for any available updates via Windows Update.

I cannot possibly test all configurations extensively (meaning, each persons specific computer needs), but what I can offer is what "works for me" and the obstacles I have came across so you do not have to discover them on your own. If information on this page needs a revision or expanded, please check out the forums.

An * (asterisk) indicates changes from the default.

Two ** (asterisks) indicates changes from Service Pack 2 to Service Pack 3.

Notes for a Happier Computer and User

  • Do not use "msconfig" to disable services, type "services.msc" in the Run box instead! (Why?) 
  • Before disabling any service, check out the service information about each by selecting the service name links provided.
  • If you do not wish to select/change each service by hand, I offer up Service Registry files to adjust them with only a few clicks. Currently, "Default" and "Safe" are available.
  • If you wish to create a custom registry file, you can use my Custom Services Registry File Tool.
  • Service settings are global, meaning changes apply to all users.
  • All of these services are "Standard" with Windows XP after the installation of Service Pack 3. If you discover something other than these listed here running, another program installed them or they were installed with optional updates via Windows Update. Examples of this include .NET services and WMP services. View a listing of the more common ones.
  • Still unsure? Put your setting to "Manual" or the listing under "Safe." Manual allows Windows XP to start the service when it needs to (or when ever it feels like it), but not at boot up. Depending on your configuration, not all services will start when required while in "Manual" mode. If you find you need a service, place it in Automatic.
  • After adjusting your service settings, reboot your computer.
  • If you do not have some of these services listed, do not panic! If your computer manufacture "pre-installed" your XP, they choose not to have certain services installed for you. This is, in most cases, a fact with OEM versions of Windows XP Home.
  • Before posting your question on the forums, see if your question has been addressed in the FAQ!
  • Disabling all of the "unneeded services" reduces the footprint of the OS by up to 70%, depending on system.
  • Viewing Instructions: If the information is hard to read, please check out your viewing options.

Table Header Information

  • The columns are sortable. Select the column header to sort by that field.
  • Display Name ~ How it displays in the Services Control Panel.
  • Service Name ~ What name is used in the registry.
  • DEFAULT ~ What Bill G. thinks should be running on Windows XP.
  • "SAFE" Configuration ~ This is the configuration that 95% of the people will be able to use with little or no side effects. It will also minimize the amount of "errors" that is reported in the Event Viewer. This does not guarantee it will work for you, but if adjusting your services scares you, this configuration would be a good starting point.
  • Tweaked Configuration ~ This is the power user setup. This setup is a system that connects through a network (such as a gateway / router) to the internet, provides file and print sharing resources and gaming enjoyment. Some things may not function with this setup. No passwords save. Its use is not for a computer with analog modems or some direct DSL/cable connections. Try the "Safe" Configuration first.
  • Bare-bones Configuration ~ This is the super geek setup. This setup is a system that connects through a network (such as a gateway / router) to the internet with a static IP address. This system does not provide file and print sharing resources, nor have the ability to print. Its use is not for a computer with analog modems or many direct DSL/cable connections. You can use this configuration for extreme tweaking and testing purposes. Many things may not function with this setup. No passwords save. The Event Log will display "errors" of not being able to start certain services. Built in Windows CDR-RW functions may no longer work. Please do not ask, "How do I fix" questions while using this configuration. The answer will be "Use SAFE." This information's intention is for my reference only.

Configuration Information

  • Automatic ~ With a service in this state, it will start at boot time. Some services, when no longer required, will also automatically stop when not needed. However, this is very rare. If you find you do not need a service, place it into Manual or Disabled.
  • Manual ~ Manual mode allows Windows to start a service when needed. However, very few services will start up when required in Manual mode. If you find you need a service, place it into Automatic.
  • Disabled ~ This setting will stop a service from starting, even if needed. Errors in the Event Viewer will show up complaining of that fact. Some services, while Disabled, will constantly complain. However, this situation is taken care of if placed in Manual. The service descriptions identifies those that should be in Manual vice Disabled.
  • "Started" ~ A service that either set to Manual or Automatic that is running by default at or shortly after boot time.
  • "Not Started" ~ A service set into Automatic that is not running by default at or shortly after boot time.

Service Dependency Abbreviation Information

  • H ~ Windows XP Home
  • M ~ Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005
  • P ~ Windows XP Pro
  • T ~ Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005

Black Viper's Windows XP x86 (32-bit) Service Pack 3 Service Configurations

Show and Hide Columns:
  • Display Name
  • Service Name (Registry)
  • DEFAULT Home
  • DEFAULT MCE 2005
  • DEFAULT Pro
  • DEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005
  • "SAFE"
  • Tweaked
  • Bare-bones
Display Name Service Name (Registry) DEFAULT Home DEFAULT MCE 2005 DEFAULT Pro DEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005 "SAFE" Tweaked Bare-bones
Alerter Alerter Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled
Application Layer Gateway Service ALG Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual Manual Disabled *
Application Management AppMgmt ManualManualManual Manual Manual Manual Disabled *
Automatic Updates wuauserv Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Background Intelligent Transfer Service BITS ManualManualManual ManualManual Manual Disabled *
ClipBook ClipSrv DisabledDisabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled
COM+ Event System EventSystem Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual Manual Disabled *
COM+ System Application COMSysApp ManualManualManual Manual Manual Manual Disabled *
Computer Browser Browser Automatic (Not Started) Automatic (Not Started) Automatic (Not Started) Automatic (Not Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Cryptographic Services CryptSvc Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
DCOM Server Process Launcher DcomLaunch Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Automatic
DHCP Client Dhcp Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Distributed Link Tracking Client TrkWks Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Manual * Manual * Disabled *
Distributed Transaction Coordinator MSDTC ManualManualManual ManualManual Manual Disabled *
DNS Client Dnscache Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Error Reporting Service ERSvc Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Event Log Eventlog Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started)Automatic Automatic Automatic
Extensible Authentication Protocol Service ** EapHost Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Disabled * Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Fast User Switching Compatibility FastUserSwitchingCompatibility Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started)Manual Disabled * Disabled *
Fax Fax Not Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
FTP Publishing MSFtpsvc Not Available Not InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Health Key and Certificate Management Service ** hkmsvc Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Disabled * Disabled *
Help and Support helpsvc Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Manual * Disabled * Disabled *
HTTP SSL HTTPFilter Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual Manual (Started) Manual Disabled * Disabled *
Human Interface Device Access HidServ Disabled DisabledDisabled DisabledDisabled Disabled Disabled
IIS Admin IISADMIN Not AvailableNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
IMAPI CD-Burning COM Service ImapiService ManualManualManual Manual Manual Manual Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Indexing Service cisvc Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
IPSEC Services PolicyAgent Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
IPv6 Helper Service 6to4 Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Logical Disk Manager dmserver Manual Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Manual * Manual * Disabled *
Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service dmadmin ManualManualManual ManualManual Manual Disabled *
Media Center Receiver Service ehRecvr Not Available Automatic (Started)Not AvailableNot AvailableAutomatic Disabled * Disabled *
Media Center Scheduler Service ehSched Not Available Automatic (Started)Not AvailableNot AvailableAutomatic Disabled * Disabled *
Message Queuing MSMQ Not AvailableNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Message Queuing Triggers MSMQTriggers Not AvailableNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Messenger Messenger DisabledDisabled Disabled DisabledDisabled Disabled Disabled
MHN MHN Not Available Manual Not Available Not Available Manual Disabled * Disabled *
MS Software Shadow Copy Provider SwPrv ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Net Logon Netlogon ManualManual Manual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing mnmsrvc ManualManualManual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Network Access Protection Agent ** napagent Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual
Network Connections Netman Manual (Started)ManualManual ManualManual Manual Manual
Network DDE NetDDE DisabledDisabled Disabled DisabledDisabled Disabled Disabled
Network DDE DSDM NetDDEdsdm DisabledDisabled Disabled DisabledDisabled Disabled Disabled
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Network Location Awareness (NLA) Nla Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual Manual Disabled *
Network Provisioning Service xmlprov ManualManual Manual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
NT LM Security Support Provider NtLmSsp Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Disabled *
Peer Name Resolution Protocol PNRPSvc Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Peer Networking p2psvc Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Peer Networking Group Authentication p2pgasvc Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Peer Networking Identity Manager p2pimsvc Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Performance Logs and Alerts SysmonLog ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Plug and Play PlugPlay Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started)Automatic Automatic Automatic
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Portable Media Serial Number Service WmdmPmSN ManualManual Manual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Print Spooler Spooler Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started)Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Protected Storage ProtectedStorage Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started)Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
QoS RSVP RSVP ManualManualManual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Remote Access Auto Connection Manager RasAuto ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Remote Access Connection Manager RasMan ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Remote Desktop Help Session Manager RDSessMgr ManualManualManual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) RpcSs Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started)Automatic Automatic Automatic
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator RpcLocator ManualManualManual ManualManual Manual Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Remote Registry RemoteRegistry Not Available Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Removable Storage NtmsSvc ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
RIP Listener Iprip Not InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Routing and Remote Access RemoteAccess DisabledDisabled Disabled DisabledDisabled Disabled Disabled
Secondary Logon seclogon Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Security Accounts Manager SamSs Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Automatic
Security Center wscsvc Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
Server lanmanserver Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Shell Hardware Detection ShellHWDetection Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP) SMTPSVC Not AvailableNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Simple TCP/IP Services SimpTcp Not InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Smart Card SCardSvr ManualManualManual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
SNMP Service SNMP Not InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
SNMP Trap Service SNMPTRAP Not InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
SSDP Discovery Service SSDPSRV Manual (Started)Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual Disabled * Disabled *
System Event Notification SENS Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
System Restore Service srservice Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
Task Scheduler Schedule Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service LmHosts Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
TCP/IP Printer Server LPDSVC Not InstalledNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed
Telephony TapiSrv ManualManualManual ManualManual Manual Disabled *
Telnet TlntSvr Not AvailableDisabledManual Disabled Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Terminal Services TermService Manual (Started)Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual (Started) Manual Disabled * Disabled *
Themes Themes Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS ManualManualManual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Universal Plug and Play Device Host upnphost ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Volume Shadow Copy VSS ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
WebClient WebClient Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Windows Audio AudioSrv Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Automatic
Windows Firewall / Internet Connection Sharing SharedAccess Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Disabled *
Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) stisvc ManualManualManual ManualManual Disabled * Disabled *
Windows Installer MSIServer ManualManualManual ManualManual Manual Manual
Windows Management Instrumentation winmgmt Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Automatic
Windows Management Instrumentation Driver Extension Wmi Not AvailableManualManual ManualManual Manual Disabled *
Windows Time W32Time Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Wired AutoConfig ** Dot3svc Manual Manual Manual Manual Manual Disabled * Disabled *
Display NameService Name (Registry)DEFAULT HomeDEFAULT MCE 2005DEFAULT ProDEFAULT Tablet PC Edition 2005"SAFE"TweakedBare-bones
Wireless Zero Configuration WZCSVC Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Disabled * Disabled *
WMI Performance Adapter WmiApSrv ManualManualManual Manual Disabled * Disabled * Disabled *
Workstation lanmanworkstation Automatic (Started)Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic (Started) Automatic Automatic Automatic
World Wide Web Publishing w3svc Not AvailableNot InstalledNot Installed Not InstalledNot Installed Not Installed Not Installed

An * (asterisk) indicates changes from the default.

Two ** (asterisks) indicates changes from Service Pack 2 to Service Pack 3.


Windows XP  Super Tweaks

The following is what I do directly after a clean install of Windows XP. This does not mean that everything I do will work for you. Keeping that in mind and ensure you are fully aware of the risks of tweaking your system before doing so.

Point to note: Ensure that you are logged in as an "Administrator" or have Administrator rights before performing any of these steps.

Even though I do these steps directly after a clean install, all of them can be done at any time.

Before posting your question on the forums, see if your question has been addressed in the FAQ!

1): System Restore and Indexing Services

This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro.

If you are experiencing "random" slowdowns and "high" CPU usage for no reason, these two services are the most likely cause of the problem. These services are also a major cause of "missing" disk space. System Restore Service could be taking up 3 GB of space, just on its own.

For an easy method of creating multiple Service Configurations, please check out my Windows XP Services Profile Guide.

System Restore Service creates system snap shots or restore points for returning to at a later time. Every time you install a program or new driver, plus on a schedule, this service creates a "restore point" to roll back to if a problem occurs. This service would have been nice in the Win95 days due to plenty of problems occurring (new DirectX version every 15 minutes) but not required for the "much" more stable WinXP. This is the first thing that I get rid of on a clean installation. If you use this and enjoy it, good for you. I never will. I feel it is faster and less hassle to just install clean. A rather GOOD (and possibly the only) reason to use this "feature" is to roll back your OS after installing an unknown program or testing software. For example: BETA software of any kind or before installing Service Pack 1 or 2. NOTE: If you disable this service, your previous "restore points" will be deleted. If, for what ever reason, you do not want this to happen, do not disable this service.

Get rid of System Restore Service and Indexing Service. I disable both, plus uncheck the box, just in case it may decide to fire back up. This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro. Where do you find it?

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select System
  5. Select System Restore Tab
  6. Check "Turn off System Restore"
  7. Select the Ok button to apply the settings
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select System
  4. Select System Restore Tab
  5. Check "Turn off System Restore"
  6. Select the Ok button to apply the settings
Screen shots of the process are also available.

After that, Disable and Stop the System Restore Service:

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select Administrator Tools
  5. Select Services
  6. Select "System Restore Service" (Double Click)
  7. Select General Tab
  8. In the Startup type: select "Disabled"
  9. Select the Ok button to close the panel
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Administrator Tools
  4. Select Services
  5. Select "System Restore Service" (Double Click)
  6. Select General Tab
  7. In the Startup type: select "Disabled"
  8. Select the Ok button to close the panel
Screen shots of the process are also available.

While you are there, you can disable and stop the Indexing Service:

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select Administrator Tools
  5. Select Services
  6. Select "Indexing Service" (Double Click)
  7. Select General Tab
  8. In the Startup type: select "Disabled"
  9. Select the Ok button to close the panel
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Administrator Tools
  4. Select Services
  5. Select "Indexing Service" (Double Click)
  6. Select General Tab
  7. In the Startup type: select "Disabled"
  8. Select the Ok button to close the panel
Screen shots of the process are also available.

2): Remote Assistance and Remote Desktop Sharing

Remove Remote Assistance and Remote Desktop Sharing.

Take note: Remote Desktop Sharing is not available with Windows XP Home. You may request assistance from someone only using Windows XP Pro.

Where do you find it?

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select System
  5. Select Remote Tab
  6. Uncheck both "Remote Assistance and Desktop Sharing" options
  7. Select the Ok button to apply the settings
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select System
  4. Select Remote Tab
  5. Uncheck both "Remote Assistance and Desktop Sharing" options
  6. Select the Ok button to apply the settings
Screen shots of the process are also available.

3): Page File

Adjust the paging file to a respectable level. This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro.

Can you get rid of the paging file? Yes and no. If you have a boat load of memory (greater than 2GB) you may be able to function just fine. Some games require a certain amount of swap space to be created to even run, no matter how much RAM is available. Also, under certain conditions, my sound card goes crazy (or does not function) in some games with no paging file (oddly enough, Age of Empires 2). If you decide to test your luck with no paging file, you are on your own. :) Please do not E-Mail me with your war stories about no paging file. Every system is different and each persons requirement of how many applications are open at a time is different.. I usually do not have one "unless something requires it that I am running that day."
Where do you find it?

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select System
  5. Select Advanced Tab
  6. Under Performance, select the Settings button
  7. Select Advanced Tab
  8. Under Virtual Memory, select the Change button
  9. Adjust as needed, or select "No paging File," then select the Set button
  10. Select the Ok button to apply the settings
  11. You must reboot for the changes to take effect
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select System
  4. Select Advanced Tab
  5. Under Performance, select the Settings button
  6. Select Advanced Tab
  7. Under Virtual Memory, select the Change button
  8. Adjust as needed, or select "No paging File," then select the Set button
  9. Select the Ok button to apply the settings
  10. You must reboot for the changes to take effect
Screen shots of the process are also available.

If anything, create (preferably on a separate partition), a paging of constant size. For example, select Custom Size and place 1000 in "Initial" and 1000 in "Maximum" Size boxes, then click Set Button. This will reduce the amount of work needed to dynamically resize the paging file, usually when you need it most.

Some definitions need to be explained:

Physical RAM ~ The amount of Memory (RAM) installed on a system. Physical RAM is "way" faster than a "paging file."

Paging File ~ The file that is located on your hard drive that "acts" like Physical RAM but is way slower.

Virtual Memory ~ The name used for the sum of Physical RAM and the Paging File. In other words: Physical RAM + Paging File = Virtual Memory. You cannot "disable" Virtual Memory even if you disable the Paging File. Meaning, 2 GB RAM + 0 MB Paging File = 2 GB Virtual Memory.

If you have not already, reboot now.

4): Themes

Reduce the overhead associated with WinXP's new Themes. This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro. I have observed between 4 MB to 12 MB of RAM used for the new themes.

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select System
  5. Select Advanced Tab
  6. Under Performance, select the Settings button
  7. Select Visual Effects Tab
  8. Select "Adjust for best performance."
  9. Select the Ok button
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select System
  4. Select Advanced Tab
  5. Under Performance, select the Settings button
  6. Select Visual Effects Tab
  7. Select "Adjust for best performance."
  8. Select the Ok button
Screen shots of the process are also available.

After that, Disable and Stop the Themes service.

With the default Category Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Performance and Maintenance
  4. Select Administrator Tools
  5. Select Services
  6. Select "Themes" service (Double Click)
  7. Select General Tab
  8. In the Startup type: select "Disabled"
  9. Select the Ok button to close the panel
With the Classic Control Panel:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Control Panel
  3. Select Administrator Tools
  4. Select Services
  5. Select "Themes" service (Double Click)
  6. Select General Tab
  7. In the Startup type: select "Disabled"
  8. Select the Ok button to close the panel
Screen shots of the process are also available.

5): Services

Adjust for any additional unneeded services. This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro. Windows XP Services.

For an easy method of creating multiple Service Configurations, please check out my Windows XP Services Profile Guide.

If you have not already, reboot now.

If you have rebooted, do it again.

6): Add/Remove Programs

This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro. Go to the "Add Remove Programs" and click the "Windows components." Here, take out all the crap you do not need. Such as "MSN EXPLORER" and such.

After Removing the unused Windows components, ensure that you check back up on the services that you disabled. Some like to go back to Automatic after playing with the Windows components (namely COM+ and Help and Support).

You may also adjust a file to "allow" you to remove other Windows components, such as MSN Messenger. Here is how:

TAKE NOTE: You will need to enable "hidden file" viewing to see the inf files.

IF YOU ARE SCARED, DO NOT MODIFY THE FILE... Also, you may experience a delay of around 30 seconds or more when loading up Outlook before you can do anything. Putting Messenger back will allow Outlook to function properly again. If you use MSN Explorer, Messenger will also be running in the background. It is how Bill is getting to the ".NET" stuff. "Software as a service" is coming soon.

Go to your Windows\inf folder. The default is ~ c:\windows\inf

edit the file called "sysoc.inf"

Remove the reference of "hide" in this line:

msmsgs=msgrocm.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,hide,7

To make it look like this:

msmsgs=msgrocm.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,,7

You may also remove all references to "hide" in all of the other lines as long as you KEEP the commas. Some components you cannot "uncheck" in the add/remove programs GUI. If you do get them to uninstall, I do NOT support it. You are on your own.

7): Drivers!

This is valid for Windows XP Home and Pro. Download and install ALL updated drivers from the hardware manufacture sites. I cannot tell you what site you need to go to, but do your computer a favor and get updated drivers for everything.

Reboot again.

8): System Tray

After updating all my drivers, I remove any excess icons (all of them, basically) from the system tray (lower right) and recheck the services to ensure nothing else was installed (like NVIDIA's "driver helper." Contrary to popular belief, those little "quick access" icons take up a lot of room.

For example, MS messenger takes up about 3.6 MB just sitting there... not even logged in... Bring it up, select tools, options, then uncheck "load at startup" and uncheck "allow to run in background."

Also, Creatives "AudioHQ" running is REALLY not required.


ICQ's little "Net Detect" sucks up way too much memory. Make it go away. Various Quick Tweak icons and even EZCD creator's icon annoys the hell out of me. Make them all go away. If you just gotta have that quick access to those programs, place them in the "quick launch bar" (located in the lower left by default, where IE and "Show Desktop" buttons are). The icons will not clutter your desktop and you can easily hit them from any normal windows application. To top it all off, they do not take up memory or resources constantly running in the background. Another plus, this will reduce your boot up time.

9): msconfig

I run msconfig and get rid of any annoying startup programs that may be hiding from me. If you are not familiar with the operation and features of msconfig, I am not going to go into them here. Do not adjust your service configurations using msconfig, though.
To use msconfig:
  1. Head to Start
  2. Select Run
  3. Type "msconfig" without the quotes
  4. Select OK or hit Enter

10): Defrag

Defrag the hard drive. Even if XP tells you that it does not need to, do it anyway. It has much tolerance for what "needs" to be done and what should be done. After all, if it was really efficient, there would be no need for you to read this page.

Defrag again after installing your applications and games. After that, there should be little need to do it again for awhile unless you delete/uninstall/reinstall a lot of stuff.

This listing is by no means complete, but it does hit on the high points.


Windows XP File and Folder Compression Guide

Introduction


Back in the old days, hard drive space was extremely valuable. Even though storage space is now measured in pennies instead of dollars, compressing files and folders can and will come in handy.
The old "Drive Space" of yesteryear is no longer required. Windows XP provides two options, each with their own advantages and disadvantages for compression needs.

Compressing with "Compressed Folders (.zip)" option


1) Shall we begin? (Image 1.1)

Windows Explorer

Open up your Windows Explorer and navigate to what ever file or folder you wish to compress.
In this example, I am using my local "BlkViper.com" folder where I store the web site.

2) Compressed (zipped) Folder: (Image 1.2)

Compressed (zipped) Folder

Right-Click the file or folder, select Send to, then Compressed (zipped) Folder.

3) Progress bar: (Image 1.3)

Progress bar

A progress bar will be displayed and a temporary file created in the same directory where the original file or folder is.

4) Side-by-side comparison: (Image 1.4)

Side-by-side comparison

With a side-by-side comparison, we see a dramatic reduction in space used.

 

Compressing using "NTFS Compression"


1) NTFS Compression: (Image 1.5)

NTFS Compression

Please note: to use this function, you must have already converted or formatted the hard drive as NTFS.
Right-Click the file or folder and select Properties.

2) File or folder properties: (Image 1.6)

file or folder properties dialog

When the file or folder properties dialog appears, chose the Advanced button.

3) Advanced options: (Image 1.7)

Advanced options

In the Advanced options, check the box Compress contents to save disk space and click OK to continue.

4) Another dialog: (Image 1.8)

Another dialog

Another dialog will ask whether you wish to have just the selected folder or all files and sub folders compressed.
I chose to include everything in this example.
After making your selection, click OK to continue.

5) Progress bar: (Image 1.9)

Progress bar

A progress bar will be displayed as to the status of compression.

6) Highlighted folder: (Image 1.10)

highlighted "blue" by default

After the folder is compressed, please note that the name of the folder is now highlighted "blue" by default.
This may not yield as good as of a result as compressed (zipped) folders, but you must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each, described below.


Advantages and Disadvantages of each:
  • Zipped folders are good for backup purposes and network transfer due to the higher compression and "single" file architecture.
  • NTFS compression is good if you need to save disk space and access the files often, but overhead occurs due to the file needing to be uncompressed before access and /or moving, then recompressed. As such, it is best to not alter or copy compressed files often.
  • Zipped folders must be extracted to execute / access the files.
  • Moving NTFS compressed files and folders to a "non-NTFS" drive removes the compression.
  • Zipped folders works with FAT32, NTFS and most extraction utilities.

Conclusion

If you require fast backup and file transfer, use Zipped folders. If file security and easy of access while still keeping hard disk space low, NTFS compression is where it is at.