what is hardware compatibility list (HCL)

although the windows xp professional setup wizard automatically checks your hardware and software for potential conflicts.before you install windows xp professional you should verify that your hardware is on the windows xp professional HCL.microsoft provide tested drivers for the listed devices only.using hardware not listed on HCL could cause problems during and after installation.the most version of HCL for released operating systems are on the microsoft website at http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/hcl/default.mspx

note - if your hardware is not in the HCL the hardware manufacturer might be able to provide you with a windows xp professional driver for the component.