Windows 7 Includes Windows XP Mode

It shouldn't surprise anyone that Windows 7 is, for the most part, an expansion to Windows Vista. However, many are not aware that Microsoft intends to remove much of the backwards compatibility that they've so far included with their operating systems. In other words, compatibility mode as we've known it is most likely greatly reduced in functionality.

Now you're probably thinking, "If compatibility mode is changed, how do I run (insert XP app here)?" While it's true that Windows 7 does still have compatibility mode, there's a new feature you're more likely to use: Windows XP Mode. By using a combination of Virtual PC and a Windows XP SP3 license (Both of which will be built in), you'll have a full Windows XP virtual machine available at your disposal. Additionally, this virtual machine will be able to access hardware directly (So maybe my games will work?).

Of course, there is a catch. Windows XP mode will only be available to Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate editions of Windows 7. There are some concerns over security and support. If you have 100 Windows 7 Enterprise installs, you may have to support 100 additional Windows XP installs. If you're using some sort of enterprise anti-virus software, you may need 200 licenses. And more importantly, even if you secure both machines, the more vulnerable operating system (presumably Windows XP) will still have holes. Should one of those holes provide a vulnerability that allows exploitation of the host operating system, any protection you thought you had is effectively gone.

On the brighter side, this means that Windows XP certifications aren't going to be worthless any time soon. It is important to note that Windows XP mode is not included by default, but it is a free download, provided you have the right Windows edition and system requirements.

Want to see what Windows XP mode looks like? Check it out here!