Run XP Mode in VirtualBox on Windows 7

Running XP Mode in VirtualBox on Windows 7

Several weeks ago, we demonstrated how to operate XP Mode on a Windows 7 computer even without Hardware Virtualization, utilizing VMware. Numerous users have inquired about the possibility of achieving the same outcome within VirtualBox. The answer is affirmative, and this guide will illustrate the process.

Editor Update

It appears that activating XP Mode directly through VirtualBox using this method isn't currently feasible. However, you can still run it for a 30-day trial period. For detailed instructions on installing XP Mode with VirtualBox using the VMLite Plugin, please refer to our updated article.

Previously, we detailed running XP mode on Windows 7 systems lacking hardware virtualization. Since then, many have requested a tutorial for replicating this process using VirtualBox. This provides an alternative method for utilizing XP Mode if your computer doesn't support hardware virtualization.

Here, we will explore how to import XP Mode from Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, or Ultimate into VirtualBox, enabling you to run XP without cost. Please note that Windows 7 Professional or a higher edition is required to use XP Mode in this manner. Testing has shown functionality on Home Premium as well, though this may violate Windows 7 licensing agreements.

Getting Started

First, download and install XP Mode (link provided below). There is no need to download Virtual PC if your computer cannot natively run it; simply download the XP Mode from the specified link.

Install XP mode by following the standard prompts.

Now, download and install VirtualBox 3.1.2 or a later version (link below). Proceed with the standard installation, adhering to the default prompts.

VirtualBox may prompt you that your network connection will be reset during installation. Press Yes to continue.

During the installation process, you may encounter several popups requesting permission to install device drivers for USB and Network interfaces. Click install, as these are essential for VirtualBox to function correctly.

The setup process should only take a few minutes and does not necessitate a system reboot.

Setup XP Mode in VirtualBox

Initially, we need to copy the default XP Mode file to prevent alterations to the original copy. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Windows XP Mode and copy the file "Windows XP Mode base.vhd". Paste it into a folder of your choosing, such as your Documents folder.

Once the file is copied, right-click on it and select Properties.

Uncheck the "Read-only" box within this dialog, then click Ok.

Now, within VirtualBox, click New to initiate the creation of a new virtual machine.

Enter a name for your virtual machine and ensure that the selected operating system is Windows XP.

Specify the amount of memory you wish to allocate to the virtual machine. VirtualBox's default is 192 Mb of RAM, but for improved performance, consider selecting 256 or 512Mb.

Next, select the hard drive for the virtual machine. Choose "Use existing hard disk", then click the folder button to locate the XP Mode virtual drive.

In this window, click Add, and then browse to find the copy of XP Mode you previously created.

Ensure the correct virtual drive is selected, then press Select.

After selecting the VHD, your screen should display the following; then click Next.

Verify that the settings you have made are accurate. If necessary, you can return and make any adjustments. When everything appears correct, click Finish.

Finalizing XP Mode Setup

Now, in VirtualBox, click Start to launch XP Mode.

The Windows XP instance within this virtual drive is not yet fully configured, so you will need to proceed through the setup process.

If you did not uncheck the "Read-only" box in the VHD properties earlier, you may encounter an error message. If this occurs, return and verify that the file is not set to read-only.

When you click inside the virtual machine, it will typically capture your mouse cursor. Simply press the right Ctrl key to release the cursor and return to using Windows 7. This will only be necessary during the setup phase; after the Guest Additions are installed, the mouse will seamlessly transition between operating systems.

Proceed to accept the license agreement in XP.

Choose your appropriate locale and keyboard settings.

Enter a name for your virtual XP instance and an administrative password.

Review the date, time, and time zone settings, and adjust them if they are incorrect. The time and date are usually correct, but the time zone often requires correction.

XP will now automatically complete the setup of your virtual machine and then automatically reboot.

After rebooting, select your preferred automatic update settings.

You may receive a prompt to search for drivers; simply press Cancel, as all the necessary drivers will be installed later with the Guest Additions.

Your final settings will be finalized, and you will eventually see your XP desktop within VirtualBox.

Please be aware that XP Mode may not remain activated after importing it into VirtualBox.

When prompted to activate it, use the key located at C:\Program Files\Windows XP Mode\key.txt. Note: During our testing, we were unable to complete the activation process. We are investigating this issue and will provide a revised article detailing the correct method for successfully activating XP Mode in VirtualBox soon.

Now, we have one final component to install – the VirtualBox Guest Additions. In the VirtualBox window, click "Devices" and then select "Install Guest Additions".

This should launch automatically within XP; if it doesn't, click Start, then My Computer, and double-click the CD drive, which should be labeled VirtualBox Guest Additions.

Simply install using the standard default settings.

You can choose to install an experimental 3D graphics driver if you wish to attempt running games in XP within VirtualBox; however, be aware that this is not fully supported and is currently a test feature.

You may encounter a prompt informing you that the drivers have not passed Logo testing; simply press "Continue Anyway" to proceed with the installation.

Once the installation is complete, you will be required to reboot your virtual machine.

After rebooting, you can seamlessly move your mouse cursor directly from Windows XP to Windows 7 without pressing Ctrl.

Integrating with Windows 7

Once your virtual machine has rebooted, you can integrate it with your Windows 7 desktop. In the VirtualBox window, click Machine and then select "Seamless Mode".

In Seamless mode, the XP Start menu and taskbar will appear on top of your Windows 7 Start and Taskbar.

Here, we see XP running on Virtual Box in Seamless Mode. The older XP WordPad is displayed alongside the newer Windows 7 version of WordPad.

Another view of everything running seamlessly together on the same Windows 7 desktop.

Hover the pointer over the XP taskbar to reveal the VirtualBox menu items.

You can exit Seamless Mode from the VirtualBox menu or by using "Ctrl+L".

This will return you to running it separately on your desktop.

Conclusion

Running XP Mode in a Virtual Machine is an excellent way to experience this feature on computers that lack Hardware Virtualization capabilities. If you prefer VMware Player, please refer to our articles on how to run XP Mode on Windows 7 machines without Hardware Virtualization, and how to create an XP Mode for Windows 7 Home Premium and Vista.

Download VirtualBox here

Download XP Mode here