Get Windows XP Mode on Windows 8

Creating a Windows XP Environment on Windows 8

The feature known as "Windows XP Mode" is not natively available within Windows 8. Microsoft is phasing out support for Windows XP, discouraging its use even within virtualized environments.

Despite this, establishing a comparable Windows XP experience on Windows 8 is readily achievable.

Virtualization Options

While numerous virtual machine programs can be utilized to run Windows XP, a specific approach offers enhanced integration with the Windows 8 desktop and taskbar.

This method aims to replicate the seamless functionality previously provided by the official Windows XP Mode.

Achieving Desktop Integration

By employing compatible virtualization software, users can attain a Windows XP environment that feels more integrated with their Windows 8 system.

This includes features like displaying XP applications alongside Windows 8 applications on the taskbar, and providing a cohesive desktop experience.

Note: This process requires obtaining a valid Windows XP license and installation media.

The goal is to provide a functional and accessible Windows XP environment for those who require compatibility with older software.

Understanding the Functionality of Windows XP Mode

Windows XP Mode was presented by Microsoft as a solution for utilizing older software within a "Windows XP environment." However, it represents more than a standard compatibility feature.

Specifically within Windows 7, this mode functions as a complete installation of the Windows XP operating system, executed through Microsoft’s Virtual PC virtualization technology. Any applications installed while operating in Windows XP Mode are actually running within this dedicated virtual machine.

Microsoft distinguished itself from competitors by providing a fully licensed version of Windows XP. This offered a more streamlined user experience compared to installing Windows XP within VirtualBox, which typically confines older applications to the virtual machine’s window.

Alternatives to Windows XP Mode

While Windows XP Mode isn’t a feature of Windows 8, similar functionality can be achieved using VMware Player. Alternatively, solutions like VirtualBox or the integrated Hyper-V virtualization feature in Windows 8 can also be employed.

VMware Player, however, provides integration features comparable to those found in Windows XP Mode. These include the ability to create direct shortcuts to applications running within the virtualized environment and display distinct taskbar icons for each program.

Setting Up a Windows XP Virtual Machine on Windows 8

It’s important to note that Windows 8 does not include a pre-licensed copy of Windows XP. Therefore, a separate Windows XP installation disc or image file is required for setup.

VMware Player is available at no cost for personal use. For business applications, consider VirtualBox or a paid license for VMware Workstation.

Unlike the Windows 7 implementation, which was limited to Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise editions, this setup is compatible with all versions of Windows 8.

Establishing Windows XP Mode Utilizing VMware Player

Begin by downloading and installing VMware Player onto your system. Following installation, initiate the program and proceed to construct a new virtual machine.

Navigate the setup procedure, supplying either a Windows XP installation disc or a Windows XP disc image in ISO format.

Input your product key, designated username, password, and any other required details. The installation of Windows XP within the virtual machine will be automated by VMware Player.

No manual intervention is necessary during this phase; simply allow the process to run to completion. VMware Player will manage all aspects, including the installation of VMware Tools, which facilitates desktop integration capabilities.

The VMware Tools package is crucial for seamless interaction between the host operating system and the virtualized Windows XP environment.

Integrating Windows XP with Windows 8

To achieve integration between a Windows XP installation and Windows 8, navigate to the Player menu within VMware Player and choose the Unity option. This action activates a specific operational mode, allowing Windows XP applications to function directly on the Windows 8 desktop environment.

Any applications that were actively running at the time Unity mode is enabled will be displayed on your Windows 8 desktop. They will also appear with their corresponding icons integrated into the Windows 8 taskbar.

Launching applications that are operating within Windows XP mode can be accomplished by moving your mouse cursor to the bottom-left corner of the screen. From there, utilize the VMware menu to initiate applications from the Windows XP system. These will then launch on your Windows 8 desktop.

For the creation of direct access links to these applications, right-click on their shortcuts within the VMware launcher menu. Then, select the "Create Shortcut on Desktop" option. This will generate a desktop shortcut for convenient application launching.

Unity mode can be deactivated at any point by clicking the Windows XP menu and selecting "Exit Unity". This will revert your Windows XP applications to running within a dedicated virtual machine window.

VMware Player automatically configures both drag-and-drop functionality and copy-and-paste capabilities. This allows for a seamless user experience, closely mimicking native application behavior within Windows 8. However, it’s important to note that these applications are not actually running *in* Windows 8.

Related: Microsoft is Ending Support for Windows XP in 2014: What You Need to Know

The removal of this feature from Windows 8 by Microsoft is regrettable, yet understandable. The company’s decision reflects a move away from supporting the older Windows XP operating system. Windows XP mode initially served as a solution for business users, providing reassurance during upgrades from Windows XP.

This feature allowed a smooth transition to Windows 7, with the assurance that any problematic applications could continue to operate within the Windows XP mode environment. However, Microsoft intends for Windows XP mode to be a temporary solution. The goal is to encourage businesses to update their applications to ensure compatibility with newer Windows versions, rather than relying on Windows XP indefinitely.

While reliance on a Windows XP virtual machine should be minimized, other virtualization solutions will continue to offer a fallback option. This remains true even as Microsoft discontinues its own Windows XP Mode offering.