Windows 7: Can I create and boot from a Windows 7 Home Premium VHD?

Hello,

I know that I am probably beating a dead horse, but I have to ask; I am running Windows 7 Home Premium x64 and I wish to create and boot from a VHD file as outlined in How to Create a Windows 7 VHD at Boot to Start...



Unfortunately it comes with the following warning:

You must have either Windows 7 Ultimate, Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 8 Pro, or Windows 8 Enterprise installed on the VHD to be able to boot from the VHD natively.

Does this mean that I am out of luck. I have poked around and cannot seem to find an answer. Perhaps I am asking the wrong questions.

Also, if I am able to do this, can I use Windows Update, must I activate it, and can I install more software into it? If you have not guessed by now, I am in new territory here.

Thank you...

Hello RETierney,

I'm afraid that the warning is true.

You can run it on a virtual machine though. It will need to be activated by the end of the trial period like any other Windows installation. You can install software and run it like any other Windows installation.

Hope this helps,
Shawn

What are you wanting to use this for?

Hello,

I wish to have a development environment (Visual Studio 2010 Express, Windows 7 SDK) where I can continue to write little programs for myself. But, I don't do this frequently enough to warrant installing the development tools on my small-sized SSD. I was planning to write the programs using the VHD installation and then copy them to the regular installation.

This wasn't an issue of course before I installed the SSD to replace the HDD. I am now using the HDD as a secondary drive to hold my Library files and other files. I was going to create the VHD on the HDD. I wish to reserve my SSD for programs that I use on a daily basis or frequently.

Thank you, and there's too many D's in this post.

Have you tried installing the program on the HDD?

I only ask because you will need a separate license key if you run another OS

Well cut off my legs and call me shorty! I didn't know, or maybe never noticed, that one could change the installation drive. I feel a little foolish.

Thank you...

Your welcome. Glad we could assist you.