Microsoft Unveils Windows XP on October 25

Announces $25,000 Contribution to Crayons to ComputersOct. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of area computer enthusiasts will be on hand for Microsoft's official Windows XP Launch Event at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, on Thursday, October 25, 2001. On site registration for the event begins at 11 a.m. and programming continues to 5:30 p.m. The event is open to the public, and geared toward information technology professionals, business executives and developers.

The event will offer the general public its first look at Microsoft's Windows XP operating system, promised to be the most significant upgrade since Windows 95. The launch will feature information sessions, a satellite downlink from Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Wash. and an exhibitor pavilion of Microsoft partners. Partners who will be showcasing their businesses and products as they relate to the computer industry and the XP launch include Compaq, Canon, IBM and Intel, among others.

The day will also include a general session address from Microsoft Corporate Account Manager, Depth, David C. Hanna. Hanna will speak about Windows XP features, including enhanced security and business-level reliability, which make the system the new standard for efficient and dependable computing.

Other promotions for event attendees include a raffle for a Compaq Evo laptop computer, software and other hardware and coupon and rebate opportunities for a range of hardware, software and peripherals, including $50 off of Windows XP and Office XP.

Additionally, at the event Microsoft will announce and formally mark the contribution of $25,000 in software to Crayons to Computers. A non-profit organization based in Cincinnati, Crayons to Computers gathers surplus items from businesses and individuals and offers them at no charge to area school teachers for use in their classroom. Crayons to Computers serves the neediest children in the eight county Greater Cincinnati area, with most of its students qualifying for the free and reduced price lunch programs.

"Windows XP is the product of extensive research and the resulting identification of what components are necessary to fulfill the needs of computer users at both business and home," said Hanna. "We're excited to celebrate the launch of it, along with Microsoft's continued commitment to the City of Cincinnati and the region, with a contribution to an organization of Crayons to Computers' caliber."

Among the unique features in the Windows XP operating system:

• Remote Desktop
  Remote Desktop allows you to create a virtual session and use your desktop computer from another computer running Windows 95 or later, giving you access to all of your data and applications even when you're not in your office.



• Wireless 802.1x Networking Support
  Wireless 802.1x Networking Support provides support for secured access, as well as performance improvements for wireless networks.



• New Task-based Visual Design
  Get to your most commonly used tasks quickly, thanks to a cleaner design and new visual cues.



• Advanced Performance
  Windows XP manages system resources efficiently, to keep your system running as fast as possible even when you're working with multiple programs at the same time.

For more information, or to register for the Launch Event, please call 1-877-MSEVENT or go to http://www.microsoft.com/usa/greatlakes/windowsxp and reference event 101997045.

About Microsoft:
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day. For more information, please visit http://www.microsoft.com/usa/greatlakes.

About Crayons to Computers:
Crayons to Computers is a non-profit organization and free store for teachers in the Cincinnati area. They gather surplus items from businesses and individuals and offer them at no charge to area schoolteachers for use in their classroom. Crayons to Computers helps teachers provide basic educational tools (while saving money) and simultaneously provides an opportunity for members of the community to recycle used and surplus goods. Crayons to Computers serves the neediest children in the eight county Greater Cincinnati area, with most of its students qualifying for the free and reduced price lunch programs.

SOURCE Microsoft