Windows XP Mode is a virtualization technology that addresses a specific problem that prevented many people from moving from Windows XP to Windows Vista. Many applications worked well in Windows XP but would not work in Windows Vista. Interestingly, this problem prevented people from moving to Windows XP from Windows 2000 in the early XP days. It seems to be a common problem, but Windows XP Mode may be a definitive solution for those considering Windows 7.
Microsoft spent a lot of time and effort on Windows XP Mode, and it looks like it'll be a success. It's not uncommon for Microsoft to use test topics to amplify the importance of features they've added. If you're preparing for the 70-685 and 70-686 Windows 7 exams, make sure you understand the benefits and requirements for Windows XP Mode. Windows XP Mode is a virtual instance of Windows XP running within Windows 7.
Applications that won't run in Windows 7 can be installed in this instance of Windows XP. However, Microsoft has engineered a great solution that doesn't require the user to launch Windows XP. When Windows XP Mode is configured, the user simply launches the legacy application from their Start menu, and it appears as though it's running just as any other application would run.
Although Windows XP Mode is free with Windows 7, there are some requirements you need to worry about. These include the following:
If your system will support it, you can download and install Virtual PC for Windows 7 and then download and install Windows XP Mode for Windows 7.
Windows XP Mode originally required a processor that supports virtualization that needed to be enabled in the BIOS. However, Microsoft later released an update with KB 977206 that allows Windows XP Mode to work without hardware assisted virtualization (HAV). Intel refers to HAV as Intel VT, and AMD calls it AMD-V. Both companies include utilities you can download and run to determine if your processor has this capability.
Many versions of BIOS are available, and there's no standard of how to access BIOS. Sometimes you're prompted to press F10, sometimes the Delete key, and at other times you're prompted just to press any key at the appropriate time. The only thing that is consistent is that a message will appear telling you what key to press to enter the setup mode that allows access to the system BIOS. The virtualization setting can be called AMD-V or Intel VT or simply Virtualization Technology. Find the setting and enable it.
If the processor is capable, but the BIOS doesn't have the Virtualization Technology setting, it's possible you'll need to upgrade or fl ash the BIOS. Access the command prompt and enter SystemInfo. This takes a minute to complete, but it will list a significant amount of information about your system including the BIOS version. You can search the Internet using this information for a possible upgrade. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to complete this process.
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Note: This article was sent to us by: Gary Farraday at 09182010
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