Add a Virtual PC to Windows XP - Part 1

Adding Virtual PC 2007 to Windows XP

The question arises: why should certain versions of Windows, like Vista Ultimate, receive exclusive features such as Virtual PC? Fortunately, it’s possible to integrate Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 into your existing Windows XP installation.

This software is available as a complimentary download directly from Microsoft. The following guide details the setup process and fundamental configuration of a virtual machine within the Windows XP environment.

Setting Up a New Virtual Machine

Following the installation of Microsoft Virtual PC 2007, initiate the application to begin configuring a new virtual machine. A standard wizard will guide you through the necessary steps.

While the wizard isn’t mandatory, it streamlines the initial setup for ease of use.

During the initial phase of the wizard, the default settings can be maintained to establish a basic configuration. Simply click "Next" to proceed.

Name your newly created Virtual Machine. This identifier will help you distinguish it from other virtual environments.

Next, select the desired Operating System for installation. As shown, Microsoft operating systems are prominently featured.

For demonstration purposes, Windows 98 is being installed in this article. However, you are free to install any compatible operating system. Adjust the allocated RAM accordingly, keeping in mind that it will be drawn from your host PC’s available memory. Click "Next" to continue.

As this is the first configuration of this virtual machine, choose the option to create "A new virtual hard disk". Then, click "Next".

Now, determine the size of the virtual disk drive. Given that a Windows 98 virtual machine is being created, a 2GB drive is sufficient. Click "Next".

Review all the specified settings to ensure accuracy. Once verified, click "Finish".

Confirm the settings by clicking "OK". At this stage, the foundational setup is complete.

Next Steps

The subsequent step involves installing the chosen Operating System within the virtual machine. Further features and functionalities of Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 will be explored in the following part of this tutorial.