Problems installing XP mode

[RogerR]

• Using 7 x 64
• Download the package from Microsoft: Windows6.1-KB958559-x64-RefreshPkg
• When I try to install it I get the error, "this update is not applicable to your computer".

I have previously installed Virtual Machine and XP Mode on this rig, and the Microsoft VM test agrees the machine is suitable.

My previous VM seems to be attached to an old profile, and I am trying to reinstall it so I can use some old programs.

 

[lonny]

Hi RogerR, that seems normal, the pop-up you get is because you've already installed this update. It is not really a "fresh" package, it dates back to Feb 2011.

You can check yr updates, go to Start menu > Control Panel > Windows Update > View update history and scroll down.

I'm also running W7 x64 and using Virtual Machine & XP Mode.

 

[RogerR]

OK - but then How do I reinstall XP Mode? I was under the impression the standalone update installer was supposed to unpack and run this exe, but it just ends right there.

 

[lonny]

Reinstalling is the safest and quickest way, attempting any repair or .vhd back up very dicy. Uninstall 'Windows XP Mode' and reboot to be safe.
Reinstall 'WindowsXPMode_en-us.exe' (481 MB), you'll have to reinstall all the patches/MSUs about x114. Rather cumbersome but best.

Leave 'Windows6.1-KB958559-x64-RefreshPkg' as is.

Hope you have copies of the original old XP installation program files you used to run?

 

[RogerR]

Thanks, Lonny.

As you suggested, once I uninstalled Windows XP Mode, I was able to reinstall the package WindowsXPMode_en-us.exe, and it is installing now. Fortunately I don't store any critical data within the VHD, just to run a couple of old programs (which I still have) that are incompatible with modern windows.