Virtual XP for Windows 7

 

Gallery

By Stuart Turton

Posted on 27 Apr 2009 at 09:05

Windows 7 will feature a virtual XP mode, as Microsoft attempts to sway reluctant business users to upgrade.

Dubbed Windows XP Mode, the feature will allow users to install applications designed for Windows XP directly into a virtual environment.

The company says Windows XP Mode will be offered as a free download to users running Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise - the three highest priced versions of the operating system.

The compatibility mode is clearly aimed at addressing the compatibility issues that so infuriated early Windows Vista adopters.

Speaking on the company's blog, Scott Woodgate, director of Windows enterprise and virtualisation strategy, admitted the the company was looking to settle a few nerves: "Windows XP Mode is specifically designed to help small businesses move to Windows 7. Windows XP Mode provides you with the flexibility to run many older productivity applications on a Windows 7 based PC," he says.

"All you need to do is to install suitable applications directly in Windows XP Mode," adds Woodgate. "The applications will be published to the Windows 7 desktop and then you can run them directly from Windows 7."

Microsoft has announced the Windows 7 RC will be made available for public download on 5 May, with MSDN and TechNet subscribers able to get their hands on it 30 April.