Using iTunes, iPod, and Windows XP Together
When it comes to controlling music in Windows XP, you probably think immediately of Windows Media Player 9. Windows Media Player 9 does play and control a wide base of music. However, there are alternative ways to control your music and, better still, take your music and media with you. Apple offers two features that distinctly separate it from Microsoft: the iTunes Store and the iPod.
Get iTunes
The iTunes store and iTunes software have radically changed the way people listen to and manage their music. The iTunes software, currently on version 4.5, focuses on the music itself, unlike Windows Media Player, which splits its attention between both video and music. Apple's iTunes does not come installed with Windows XP, though. For that, you need to visit http://www.Apple.com and download the software. With the software, you'll be able to purchase and enjoy iTunes music. (You can also visit http://www.itunes.com, which takes you directly to the iTunes official web site.) Once at the site, you'll see on the home page a link to download the software for either Windows or Macintosh. Forget the Mac option; go straight for Windows.
Download the software to your hard drive and double-click on the downloaded EXE file. The Installer Software walks you through the steps of getting iTunes onto your computer. This is really easyand ease of use is Apple's trademark.