Windows 7: Using XP 32-bit applications in W7HP 64-bit

I am going to be trying to install programs made for XP 32-bit in a potentally new Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit laptop (seperate systems, separate laptops), but understand that there are compatibility issues.

Other than upgrading to Windows 7 Pro 64-bit and using XP mode (if that would work anyway, based on the fact that the laptop will be 64-bit), are there any other solutions to this problem?

Thanks

occasionally a program will give you issues, this is unlikely though as 64 bit can emulate 32 pit but if you have a problem just use compatibility mode for xp

You can try to get an official answer from Microsoft:



Windows Compatibility Center

and yes xp mode will defiantly work. but it's not available on hope premium so you should take a look at either professional or ultimate. you also have the option of using a virtual machine to run a copy of windows assuming you have a valid key that could be used.

I have tested some apps on my laptop using a test disk with Windows 7 Pro 32-bit (and didn't use XP mode or VM etc for the test). Some apps worked, some didn't.

So I'm guessing from the above posts that the results would be similar for a Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit?

yes, some apps just aren't compatible for 7 until their respective developers update them. but xp mode will run those apps, if your unfamiliar with VPC's there are lots of really helpful posts and tutorials here on seven forums

OK-thanks. I will look into this.

I have to say I was surprised by Windows 7 and 32-bit apps. I have some fairly odd programs (for things like editing .cr2 files or UV mapping in 3d figure work), and a lot of them are 5 - 10 yrs old. I haven't encountered a single problem so far with any of them. Nor have I changed the compatibilty for any program.

I'm even running Photoshop 6.01, which according to what I read before buying Windows 7, wouldn't work at all. Not a single issue with it so far.

mac