xfce - Preparing an old Windows XP computer for Xubuntu and installing it

I have done research, and am looking to eliminate Win XP from an old computer, and want to run XFCE with libreoffice.

1. Main question: Do I download and create .exe file on media of XFCE or Xubuntu?




2. Is XFCE something you install AFTER Xubuntu, or does it include Xubuntu?




3. Should I leave WinXP on computer, then install OS which will let me wipe drive before installing new OS?




4. If there is a great installer guide that answers these questions, point me that way! If not, details appreciated.

1) Do I download and create .exe file on media of XFCE or Xubuntu?

You need to visit http://xubuntu.org/ and download the latest .iso file (currently 16.04 LTS) . Then you can burn it to either a DVD or USB Pen Drive depending on your choice of media. There are many available tools for former method and for latter you can use UNetBootin or similar software.

2) Is XFCE something you install AFTER Xubuntu, or does it include Xubuntu?

Nope, Xubuntu already includes the XFCE Desktop.

3) Should I leave WinXP on computer, then install OS which will let me wipe drive before installing new OS?

You can edit existing partitions using gparted to keep XP in a dual boot setup, but I don't recommend that as XP is no longer supported. Better backup your entire data and perform a clean installation of Xubuntu.

4) If there is a great installer guide that answers these questions, point me that way! If not, details appreciated.

http://ubuntuhandbook.org is a good one, though I haven't tried it personally. However, a simple Google Search or a search on AskUbuntu should answer any question you may have. Best of Luck.