I have Windows XP and know I need to upgrade. Is there a way to do this without spending $120??

Get off the Windows merry-go-round completely.

Use Linux.

A free operating system that (except for gaming) does everything a PC does, without the overwhelming burden of malicious junk and the attendant babysitting PC's require.

Many Linux flavors are 'point and click' and resemble Windows enough so you can start using them right way without massive training sessions.

Ubuntu and Mint are popular, and run just fine on older systems. "Dual Boot" allows you to keep your XP in tact and as is.

See how it's done: http://www.psychocats.net/ubuntu/installing

If you have at least Intel Pentium processor and 2GB of RAM then go online and download Windows 7 Ultimate for free from somewhere; there are many websites that provide download links and torrents for free.

I would highly recommend spending like $400-500 and getting a new laptop...totally worth it....

Most XP systems don't have the capabilities to run any newer software updates.

We'll all need to buy new computers.