What is the latest Version Xampp to use with Windows XP SP3

[Wamhost]

Hello to Apache friends support,
I have searched high and low for some information please about the available upgrade files on the this page
http://sourceforge.net/projects/xampp/files/XAMPP%20Windows/1.8.2/

I am currently running Xampp 1.7.3 on my Windows XP SP3 home computer and need to upgrade so I can upgrade to later Jooma app's.
Q1: Can you please tell me which is the latest Version ( most recent release) of Xampp for Windows I can use on my Windows XP SP3 computer?
Can I use xampp-win32-1.8.2-6-VC9.zip or do I have to choose an earlier version ?
Q2: Should I use the Zip file or the *Installer.exe file?
Q3: What is the difference between a VC6 or VC9 or VC11 type file ??
Thanking you very much in anticipation of your reply.
regards
Wamhost

[Altrea]

Hi,

Can I use xampp-win32-1.8.2-6-VC9.zip

Yes. XAMPP 1.8.2-X is the latest Version for Windows XP.

Q2: Should I use the Zip file or the *Installer.exe file?

That is a matter of personal preference. I for example don't like the Bitnami installier, i prefer the zip version.

Q3: What is the difference between a VC6 or VC9 or VC11 type file ??

That is the version of the Visual C compiler it is compiled against. Normally it doesn't matter for you, you only need the runtime related to this library.

Best wishes,
Altrea

[Wamhost]

Thanks so much for your reply Altrea. Much Appreciated !
All the best
WamHost
(Australia)