What are the differences between XP Pro and XP Media center? From a networking standpoint and everything else?

Not a huge amount, except MCE can't be added to a domain once it's been installed as far as I am aware.

but file sharing, printer sharing, etc. and ALL other networking is the same?? any links comparing them?

Media Center is built on XP Pro. The only dfference you will probably notice is an icon on the desktop in MCE to open up the MC software.

The only networking difference as far as I am aware is not being able to join a domain.

Also you will get an extra theme for your windows, it's their media edtion skin for XP.

Well they are basically the same product but now Microsoft gets to make more money off of you! ;)

Well they are basically the same product but now Microsoft gets to make more money off of you! ;)

But MCE is cheaper than Pro...

Its more an attempt to make money off a different market...the "I want a PC but i'm scared of technological stuff" market.

My dad recently got a MCE powered PC, they're pretty idiot proof inside the MC software, but outside of it, its just a normal XP install, apart from you can't see what you're doing on a CRT television screen ;-)

AFTERTHOUGHT: Maybe Microsoft is in some money making deal with the folk who produce LCD televisions - and Media Centre is some sort of attempt to force you to upgrade..hmmmmmm conspiracy...

~Jay

But MCE is cheaper than Pro...
Due to the "Network" setup that can be done in pro.

Yea it's really not different.

According to CNET, MCE is built on WinXP Home not Pro.

http://reviews-zdnet.com.com/Microsoft_Windows_XP_Media_Center_Edition_2005/4505-3672_16-31138402-3.html?tag=nav

If there is "Remote Desktop" then it's Pro, if not then it's Home.

Cheers

Well unless they changed it the last MCE I set up came with 2 disks. The first one stated right in set up Windows XP Pro and during set up it asks for the second disc to add the extra features.

I've heard some programs aren't able to run on XP MC.