Secret: Six major problems with XP mode in Windows 7

Windows 7 XP mode is a hot topic, XP mode is a Windows 7 add-on that allows users to run Windows XP programs in a virtual machine. A few days ago, the famous technology website ZDNet columnist Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tried to use the XP mode for a period of time, the author pointed out the six problems of the XP model.

First, the lack of virtual tools

If you have used commercial products such as VMware workstations, you will feel that the XP mode is very basic. XP mode cannot copy virtual operating systems or create snapshots, and the advantages of virtual operating systems are exactly here, but XP mode does not provide these tools.

Second, managing two systems at the same time

More seriously, companies using XP mode need to manage twice the number of desktop operating systems. Anyone who migrates to Windows 7 and uses XP mode will encounter this problem. If XP mode can manage XP installations, the situation may not be so bad, but XP mode does not.

Third, XP mode threats host system

Virtual operating system is the sandbox of the host operating system, which is an advantage of virtualization technology, which means that if the virtual operating system is attacked by a virus, The host operating system is still secure. In XP mode, the virtual operating system seems to always access the file system of the host operating system, so the security of the host operating system is difficult to guarantee.

Fourth, the increase in security costs

In order to ensure the security of the two systems, users need to install anti-virus software, firewall for each system. This is not just a matter of cost, but users also need to upgrade their security software on a regular basis.

V. Configuration troubles

Running XP mode is higher than running Windows 7 or XP alone. The minimum memory is 2GB. The chip is limited to Intel and AMD.

In order to run XP mode, the user has to configure a CPU that supports virtual technology. Intel CPUs require VT-x technology, and AMD CPUs require AMD-V technology. After the CPU is equipped, the user also needs to consider the BIOS configuration.

Sixth, what is the focus?

If your business is currently using XP, what is the point of moving to Windows 7? After all, whether you use XP mode or not, XP's extended support will end in 2014, XP mode is just a temporary measure.

When we argue that XP mode is good or bad, do we think of using other systems? Linux or Mac? In fact, Windows does not have to be used as a host. However, Microsoft's "XP mode" has been improved to eliminate the need for virtualized hardware, which undoubtedly lowers the application threshold of "XP mode".

About Windows XP Mode:

Windows XP Mode makes it easy for users to install and run applications under Windows XP directly on Windows 7. It leverages virtualization technology to provide a virtual Windows XP environment for the Windows 7 platform. Windows XP Mode provides greater flexibility for Windows 7 users in the Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise editions to run older applications in a virtual Windows XP environment.