Windows XP Mode - Install and Setup

I guess I was the fortunate one here running an older AM2 model board that just happened to have the latest bios for it when originally ordering it. Everything was already set to go while I still have to actually build new for a famility member with no possible support for an older socket series.

The real problem at the Intel site there Shawn is the blown out details of how this and that is supposed to do this or that without cutting things to the bottom line explaining what to look for when setting the bios while there are all kinds. Instead they are trying to explain theory! You would think they would consider some type of general reference guide you could follow.

Generally once you have everything set in the bios for some boards while others simply are enabled by default the VPC going on first and after a restart the XP mode it should start right up.

When you rush ahead and install the XP mode before the VPC or forget to restart the system as part of installing the VPC then you run into problems. For running vhds made while using the betas for both in most cases those will run when first backed up and later added into the new Windows Virtual Machines sub folder later.

Warning Box at top of tutorial said:

NOTE: Windows XP Mode is only available in Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 7 Professional, and Windows 7 Ultimate.

Sorry Wii Master. Virtual PC will work, but not XP Mode. However you should still be able to create a virtual PC machine with a XP ISO file though.

Most newer motherboards have this Virtualization feature and have it enabled by default, so you can just try to install Windows Virtual PC to see. If there is a problem, you will get a error message telling you what it wrong.

Brink said:

No worries Wii Master. Virtual PC and XP Mode will work on Windows Home Premium if it passes the test here: Hardware Virtualization Technology (checks CPU compatibility and if virtualization is enabled in BIOS)

You may have to correct something there. Shawn. Sorry but I have to catch you on this one.

"Windows XP Mode will only run on Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Ultimate editions and requires a virtualization engine, such as Windows Virtual PC." http://www.microsoft.com/windows/vir.../download.aspx

One reason I couldn't run the Virtual PC 2007 in Vista was I was stuck with the Home Premium edition. This is one reason why I won't settle for anything less then the Ultimate edition this time around.

Unfortunately the MS information there shows that only the Professional and Ultimate editions of 7 will run the XP mode itself for desktop editions. The Professional and Ultimate editions also include the other support needed for the updated VPC as well.

Oops, correct you are Night Hawk.

I updated that post above. You should be able to create a normal virtial machine with a XP ISO though.

It's still a disappointment for those who go for the Home Premium editions and find out this is not supported. The previous Virtual PC 2007 also saw a lack there on the Vista equivalent as well. I know that one well!