After you switch on the computer, Windows XP is loaded into the computer's memory. Thereafter, Windows XP tests all the hardware components and loads graphic files, font files, ete. which are needed for displaying the Desktop. Finally, after having completed all the checking, Windows XP displays its Desktop

Desktop

The Windows XP Desktop is a graphical screen containing icons and pictures. The pictures and icons are actually shortcuts to programs. By double-clicking the mouse on these pictures and icons, you can gain access to their respective programs. Now, let us learn about the various elements of the Windows XP Desktop.



Icons:

These are small picture buttor:.s present on the Desktop. The icons represent programs, folders, etc. For example, the My Computer icon provides the path to work with various computer resources, e.g. the disk drive (A or B, CD-ROM drive (D and hard disk drive (C. Through the My Computer icon, you can also view the contents (files and folders) present in these drives.