Install XP Mode with VirtualBox & VMLite Plugin
Running XP Mode with VirtualBox and VMLite
Do you want to utilize XP Mode but favor Sun's VirtualBox as your virtualization solution? The free VMLite plugin enables a swift and straightforward method for running XP Mode within, or alongside, VirtualBox.
Previously, we detailed one approach to installing XP Mode in VirtualBox; however, that method resulted in the loss of XP activation, making reactivation impossible. Today, we present a reliable technique for running XP Mode in VirtualBox, seamlessly integrating it with Windows 7.
Prerequisites
Please note that Windows 7 Professional or a higher edition is required to employ XP Mode in this manner.
Installing XP Mode
Ensure you are logged in with Administrator privileges throughout the entire process. Begin by installing XP Mode on your system (link provided below). You do not need to install Windows Virtual PC.
Proceed with the installation of XP Mode, accepting the default settings.
Installing VirtualBox
Next, install VirtualBox 3.1.2 or a later version if it isn't already present. If you have an older version of VirtualBox installed, ensure it is updated.
During the setup process, you will receive a notification regarding a network connection reset.
Select the checkbox to always trust software from "Sun Microsystems, Inc." and then click Install.
The setup process is relatively quick and does not necessitate a system reboot, which is advantageous.
Installing the VMLite XP Mode Plugin
The subsequent step involves installing the VMLite XP Mode Plugin. Installation is simplified by following the on-screen wizard.
Similar to VirtualBox, you will be prompted to install device software during the installation.
After installation, launch the VMLite Wizard as an Administrator from the Start menu.
Specify the location of the XP Mode Package, which defaults to C:\Program Files\Windows XP Mode.
Accept the End User License Agreement (EULA), noting that it is intended for Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate editions.
Name the virtual machine, choose an installation folder, and enter a password.
Indicate whether you want Automatic Updates enabled.
Allow the process to complete, then click Finish.
The VMLite XP Mode will configure itself during the initial run.
This completes the initial setup. You can now run XP Mode directly from within the VMLite Workstation.
Important: XP Mode is already fully activated, and the Guest Additions are pre-installed, eliminating the need for further configuration.
Integration with VirtualBox
With the VMLite Plugin installed, VirtualBox will recognize it as one of your machines, allowing you to launch it from there.
You will see VMLite XP Mode running within Sun VirtualBox.
Integration with Windows 7
To integrate XP Mode with Windows 7, navigate to Machine \ Seamless Mode...
This will display the XP menu and Taskbar directly on top of your Windows 7 desktop, providing access to XP Mode resources.
The integration is seamless, making it difficult to discern whether you are working within XP or Windows 7.
As an example, you can run Windows Home Server Console in Windows 7 while simultaneously installing MSE from IE 6 in XP Mode.
The VM controls remain accessible at the top of the screen.
You can exit Seamless Mode by clicking the button or pressing CTRL+L.
Conclusion
This method provides a streamlined way to run XP Mode in VirtualBox on systems lacking Hardware Virtualization. It preserves XP Mode activation and is remarkably easy to implement.
Resources:
- Download XP Mode
- Download VirtualBox
- Download VMLite XP Mode Plugin for VirtualBox (Site Registration Required)