Introducing Windows XP

In this module we will look at Windows XP, the first version of a Microsoft operating system that can be used for both the consumer and the professional markets. By the time you have finished this module you will be familiar with the different versions of Windows XP. You will know what features are available in each version. And you will know some of the most important features that have been introduced in the operating system.

Planning a Windows XP Installation

Before you can install Windows XP onto your system, you need to take certain steps. This will ensure that the installation and running of Windows XP will go smoothly and without any problems. In this module we will cover the steps you should take in order to properly install Windows XP.

Setup Windows XP

In this module, we will go through the process of installing Windows XP Professional. You will take part in a simulated installation of Windows XP Professional.

Managing Local Users

In this module we'll take a look at "User Accounts" and how they can be used to control user access to the resources on a network. In this module you will learn the purpose of user accounts and how to create them and also how to Adjust Properties for a user account.

Managing Local Groups

In this module we will cover Local Group Accounts. You will learn what groups are and how they can be used to simplify user account administration. After having completed this Module, you will understand the benefits of using group accounts, know how to manage local groups and know what the different types of groups are and their purpose.

Understanding Network Protocols

In this module we will cover the fundamental concepts of network protocols. We will cover what a network protocol is and the how TCP/IP became the default protocol.

Configuring TCP/IP

TCP/IP has become the default protocol that is used by all major operating systems and hardware vendors. You will learn what IP addresses are and the benefits of using TCP/IP on a network. How to configure Windows XP to use Static and Dynamic IP addresses. How to use the Automatic Private IP addressing Feature. We will look at the TCP/IP troubleshooting tools available in Windows XP.

Network and Internet Connections

To be able to provide users with this access, you need to know how to effectively create network and internet connections. In this module we will cover the many new tools and features that Windows XP has for the configuration of network and Internet Connections.

Understanding Active Directory

In this Module we will introduce you to the concepts and technology behind Active Directory. By the end of this module you will have a good understanding of what the Active Directory Services is and understand the key benefits that Active Directory can provide an organization.

NTFS Permissions

Knowing how to control access to resources and how to assign permission is a crucial part of an administrator's job. In this module we will look at NTFS permissions and how NTFS permissions are assigned to the various files and folders, what the different types of permissions are and how to plan for and assign NTFS permissions.

Shared Folders

In this module we will look at shared folders. You will learn what shared folders are and how they can be used to make files available over a network. You will learn how to secure file resources using shared folder permissions and how to organize shared folders for easy user access and administration.

Network Printing Fundamentals

In this module you will learn network printing fundamentals including the process of making printers available over a network, why printers need to be managed and the guidelines and requirements for setting up network printers.

Setting Up Network Printers

In this module we will look at how to setup and manage network printers. You will learn how to install a printer on a local machine and how to share and set permissions for a printer. You will learn how to setup client computers and finally you will learn how to setup printer spooling and priorities.

System Architecture

In this section we will be looking at the Windows XP Architecture. You will learn the differences between Windows XP User and Kernel Mode, the Main function and purpose of the Windows XP Executive and what role the Windows XP Kernel plays in the operating system architecture.

Memory Architecture

We will look at the Windows "Memory Architecture". Topics that will be covered include: The use of Virtual memory, demand Paging and 32 bit flat, linear addressing.

Display Settings

In this module we will look at display settings including how to customize visual settings to suit user's preferences. How to adjust display resolution to ensure an optimal display size. How to adjust the monitor refresh rate for comfortable viewing. We will look at how to extend the desktop through the use of multiple monitors.

Hardware Settings

In this module we will look at the various tools that you as an administrator can use to adjust and configure hardware settings on a computer. You will understand how Plug and Play works and how to install new hardware using the add/remove hardware wizard. You will know how to use the Device Manager to view and configure devices installed in a system. Finally you will know what hardware profiles are and how they can be used to control the startup of devices.

Management Consoles

In this module you will get hands on experience in using and creating consoles that you can use yourself or delegate tasks to other users in your organization. At the end of this module you should have an understanding of the Basic Layout of the Microsoft Management Console and how to create or author consoles. You will learn how to create a TaskPad and add new tasks to the pad and how to save a console in user mode.

Event Viewer

This module will cover the Event Viewer snap-in. It will cover the basic concepts of Windows 2000 event logging.

Windows XP Disk Management

In this section we will look at Disk management concepts. At the end of this module you should understand the basic principles of Disk Management and the Difference between Basic and Dynamic Disks. You will know the difference between the different volume types and finally you should understand the different types of Fault tolerance Schemes.

The Registry

Managing the registry is an important part of a system administrator's job. In this module, we will look at the Windows XP Registry. By the time you have completed this module you should understand the purpose for the Windows XP Registry and the different parts of the Registry and it's layout.

Remote Installation Services

In this module you will learn what remote installation services is and its benefits. You will learn how to install and configure Remote Installation Services and you will also learn what is required for clients to support Remote Installation Services.

Backup

In this Module we will look at one of the administrator 's more important responsibilities, the Backing up of Data. At the end of this Module you will understand the reason for backing up data and you will know how to plan a backup strategy for your organization.