can i install winxp???

veer2394 · 08 May 2013

can i install winxp in my pc....currently im using win7 ultimate 32bit. plz help

theog · 08 May 2013

First check for all the Win XP drivers for your hardware.
If your Win XP CD, does not support your Sata Controller, you will need to load drivers to uses at F6.
Load Sata Controller drivers with a floppy disk is the best way.
SATA Drivers - Load in Windows XP Setup on Dual Boot
OR
SATA Drivers - Slipstream into Windows XP CD

LMiller7 · 08 May 2013

It depends a great deal on the computer. If it is reasonably new then installing XP is going to be difficult and most likely more trouble than it is worth. Drivers are a big problem. The XP install CD will not have drivers for hardware that did not exist when it was produced. Most hardware manufacturers don't provide XP drivers anymore. Most find it difficult to justify the considerable effort required to produce drivers for what is essentially an obsolete OS.

If it is because of software compatibility XP mode is probably a better option:
Windows XP Mode - Microsoft Windows

whs · 08 May 2013

The least trouble you would have if you install it into a virtual partition under e.g. VMware Player. There you have no driver problems whatsoever and can run XP side by side with Windows 7.

I have 5 different systems installed that way and there are a LOT of advantages over e.g. double booting. Here is a little video I made operating Windows 7 and Windows 8 side by side. It may give you an idea of such a setup.

Note: the sound volume may be a bit low. So turn up the volume on your speakers.

Windows 8 in virtual - YouTube

AddRAM · 08 May 2013

Is there some reason you want to remove Windows 7 Ultimate and go backwards to XP ?

Do you have your Windows 7 Ultimate install DVD ? So when you change your mind you can reinstall 7 ?

You should create a partition and store a disk image of windows 7 on it before you begin this project.

Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup

Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7

gregrocker · 08 May 2013

Great thread. You've heard all points of view.

Another is that you can Dual Boot Installation with Windows 7 and XP as long as the XP with SP3 installer will see the HD or you can slipstream the drivers into it per Theog's tutorial.