To determine the underlying edition of Windows XP on which a particular revision of MCE is based, the System Properties Control Panel applet can be used.

Unlike competing commercial DVR products, Microsoft did not charge a monthly subscription fee for its Media Center TV guide service.

Due to its strict hardware requirements, Microsoft opted not to supply Media Center as an independent retail version.

Some functionality, such as Media Center Extender support, use of multiple tuners, or HDTV playback/recording carries higher system requirements.

Media Center remote controls are standardized in terms of button labels and functionality, and, to a degree, general layout.