Get system info from Windows XP's Help and Support Center

by Greg Shultz | Jun 21, 2006 7:00:00 AM

Tags: Greg Shultz, Microsoft Windows XP, Support Center, System Information Tool, Microsoft Windows, Use Tools, Computer Information, Windows XP Tips Newsletter

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Takeaway: Windows XP's alternate System Information tool is your one-stop center for information about your system hardware and software installed on your computer. Greg Shultz explains how to navigate to this useful pane.

When you need to investigate Windows XP system hardware and software, you probably use the System Information tool found on the Start | All Programs | Accessories | System Tools menu. However, Windows XP's Help and Support Center provides an alternative System Information tool that you definitely should investigate.

Instead of a tree-like structure like the one in the main System Information tool, the one in the Windows XP's Help and Support Center essentially creates a Web page, complete with tables and graphics. Here's how to access the Help and Support Center's System Information tool:

Go to Start | Help And Support.
Under the Pick A Task heading on the Help And Support Center page, click Use Tools To View Your Computer Information And Diagnose Problems.
On the Tools page, select My Computer Information in the Tools column.
On the My Computer Information page, select any of the links to view a graphical report of your system.

As you'll see, this interface not only makes the information easier to digest, but you'll also find links to other resources, both in the operating system and on the Internet, that will help you gather more information or solve problems.