Microsoft reveals the technical details of Windows 7 virtual XP mode

Microsoft revealed more technical details about Windows 7 "XP mode" (XP Mode) on Tuesday. On Friday, Microsoft used its Virtual PC technology to make Windows 7 users easily run applications designed for Windows XP. This Tuesday, Microsoft explained the product. As for system requirements, running XP mode is higher than running Windows 7 or XP alone. The minimum memory is 2GB, and the chip is limited to Intel and AMD. The problem Microsoft faces is that today's computers are not able to meet such configuration requirements.

 Some PCs can be reached, some are not," Microsoft Windows unit director Scott · Scott Woodgate said, "At present, many PCs support XP mode and unclear. “

XP mode includes two core points: the Windows Virtual PC engine and a genuine Windows XP SP3 installed under the virtual machine. Although there is no point related to Windows 7, genuine users of Windows 7 Professional, Windows 7 Enterprise and Windows 7 Ultimate can download to XP mode for free.

XP mode is mainly for small businesses. Woodgate said that this is a type of customer who needs to run Windows XP applications in a Windows 7 environment.

Larger companies may also want to run old programs, but this requires screening and management of XP-based machines. For them, Microsoft has a tool called MED-V, Microsoft will release the MED-V upgrade within 90 days of Windows 7 launch to support Windows 7 XP mode.

In Microsoft's existing virtual products, XP mode has an advantage, that is, after the XP mode is installed, the Windows XP virtual machine works in the background, so users do not need to manage multiple desktops. XP mode can automatically set shortcuts for XP programs in the Windows 7 Start menu. This is similar to VMware's Fusion and Parallels.

Woodgate pointed out that XP mode is not a secure solution. In order to ensure the security of the system, users need to install anti-virus software under Windows 7 desktop environment and Windows XP virtual machine.

Beta XP will be released on May 5th along with Windows 7 RC. Microsoft said that the final release of the XP model will be based on beta feedback. Woodgate expects that Microsoft hopes that the final version of XP mode will be released with Windows 7.

Woodgate revealed that the development of XP Mode is actually synchronized with Windows 7, and it is amazing that Microsoft can keep the secret for such a long time.