XP is by far the best Windows out there. I'd say that your problems are most likely due to the subpar hardware that HP loves to put out... Their computers are especially terrible, their scanners are marginally better, and, while their printers used to be the top-of-the-pile, I have been sorely disappointed by the 4 that I've gone through under the warranty so far....
I know that's not exactly what you want to hear, but XP really is more stable.
:) ttt