Microsoft isn't wasting any time working on its next operating system, Windows 7, which is due out in 2010.  But many, fearful of adopting Microsoft Vista, are left wondering: how long will Windows XP, first released in 2001, stick around? The answer isn't all that clear cut.

Though June 30, 2008 was a given date for the popular operating system's death, Microsoft will offer extended XP availability in certain circumstances and systems. This list of frequently asked questions provides answers to many of your queries about the long, painful death of Windows XP.