1. Check the Windows XP compatibility list on the Microsoft website. Under 'Explore Windows XP,' select 'Devices.' Select your processor type. Under 'Select a Category,' choose 'Printers and Scanners.' Click 'Start.' This service lists printers that were specifically designed for Windows XP.
2. Look on the box if you're purchasing a new printer. Under 'System Requirements,' you will see a list of all the operating systems the printer is compatible with. Although newer printers may read 'Designed for Windows Vista,' they are probably also compatible with Windows XP.
3. Check online product reviews for the printer you're thinking of purchasing. Look specifically for reviews written by end-users, not by website editors or product manufacturers. See if the reviewer mentioned any specific compatibility issues with that printer and Windows XP.
4. Look in the user manual of an older printer to see if it's Windows XP compatible. If the printer was designed for Windows 2000 or Millennium Edition, chances are it only needs a software upgrade. If it was designed for Windows 98 or an older operating system, you will probably experience serious compatibility issues and errors.
5. Visit the printer manufacturer's website. Look in the downloads section to see if there is a Windows XP driver or compatibility patch available. While you're there, see if the manufacturer has provided any other Windows XP software for your printer. This is particularly important if you have an older printer that was designed for a previous version of Windows. Download the software and install it.
6. Click Start > Turn Off Computer. Select 'Stand By.' Wait while your computer goes to sleep. After a minute, wake the computer back up by clicking the mouse or hitting a key on the keyboard. If your printer fails to reinitialize, it is not compatible with Windows XP's power management. This issue is most likely to occur with an old printer.
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