Windows XP Compatibility Mode and Windows Virtual PC in Microsoft Windows 7

Table of Contents:

1. What are Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode?
2. Make Sure Your Dell Computer has Enough Processing Power and Memory (RAM)
3. Download and Install Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode
4. Using Windows XP Mode

What are Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode?

Windows Virtual PC is the latest Microsoft virtualization technology for Windows, and is a feature of Windows 7. Similar to previous versions of Virtual PC, Windows Virtual PC can be used to create and run the simulated hardware environments necessary to virtual a Windows operating system, which allows a single computer to run multiple operating systems simultaneously.
Windows XP Mode was designed for the user who does not have a lot of resources to spend on IT or on revamping important software. Windows XP Mode extends the lifecycle of many older Windows XP applications.
For more information, visit Microsofts Virtual PC website.

Make Sure Your Dell Computer has Enough Processing Power and Memory (RAM)

Systems running Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode require hardware following the Dell recommended specifications (Table 1).

Table 1: Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode Dell Hardware and Software Specifications

For more information, visit Microsoft's Virtual PC Hardware Configuration website.

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Download and Install Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode

1. Go to: "Windows Virtual PC Download"
2. Follow the instructions there to determine the correct file to download. 
3. Choose the language you want, and download the file.
4. Follow the installation steps listed on that page.

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Using Windows XP Mode

The wizard will set up the virtual Windows XP for first use and the new Windows XP Mode environment will be viewable on the Windows 7 desktop. Installing applications in Windows XP Mode is the same as it would be on any other computer with Windows XP installed.
For further information and support on how to use Windows XP Mode and Windows Virtual PC refer to the articles "Running Windows XP Mode with Windows Virtual PC" and Windows Virtual PC Evaluation Guide on the Microsoft website: "Windows Virtual PC: Documentation and Videos".
Help with Windows XP Mode can be found at:

• Microsoft's Windows XP and Windows Virtual PC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Microsoft's Community Help
• Dell Premium Services for Windows 7 Transitions (Home & Home Office Users)
• Dell Pay As You Need Service (Small & Medium Business Customers)

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