Windows XP Mode

[DayLaborer]

I am about to buy a Win7 PC. The last feature that has me confused whether I need Home Premium or Professional is the "Windows XP Mode". I have a lot of software that I currently use on my XP Pro PC. What exactly will that "XP Mode" gain me that I won't be able to do/run in Home Premium. Any examples of specific software that will/won't run would be great!

Thanks,
Eliezer

 

[Freestone]

Have you looked in the Windows 7 Compatibility Center for your software? You could also download and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. While the hardware report won't be applicable, it may reveal software issues for you.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/compatibility/windows-7/en-us/default.aspx

 

[linney]

The vast majority of programs that run on XP will happily run on Windows 7, nearly everything that runs on Vista will also run. 32-bit applications run on 64-bit Windows 7 too.

XP Mode would be a last chance program to run software that otherwise is not compatible with Windows 7. There are many such programs, they are usually older complicated programs that may require drivers, or have non-supported hardware. The best way to find examples might be to do a Google search.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&...stall+on+windows+7"&btnG=Search&aq=f&aqi=&oq=

Make older programs run in this version of Windows (Windows 7)

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Make-older-programs-run-in-this-version-of-Windows

Windows 7 Compatibility Center

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/compatibility/windows-7/en-us/default.aspx

One of the major benefits of XP Mode is the built-in support for USB. The other is that if it works in XP it should also work in XP Mode.

If you can afford it get the higher version of Windows 7. It will probably be cheaper than upgrading later.

 

[DayLaborer]

Thank you both for your information. Linney, please clarify what you wrote:
One of the major benefits of XP Mode is the built-in support for USB.

Thanks,
Eliezer

 

[linney]

Other Microsoft Virtual Machines will not allow you to use USB Devices, other than Mouse and Keyboard. XP Mode will allow you to attach (support) nearly all USB Devices.

 

[lionelhill]

On a side-note: DayLaborer, while most professional software is fine, if you are a closet retro-gamer, Windows7 home edition is probably not for you!