Virtual PC and XP Mode Aid Application Compatibility

To remove application compatibility as a barrier to migration, high-end editions of Windows 7 will use a new Virtual PC feature to run older Windows XP-compatible business applications in a virtual machine (VM). XP Mode, a free copy of Windows XP that runs in Virtual PC, allows access to applications running on XP in the VM from Windows 7. However, this solution means that two OSs will need to be maintained and requires processors designed to assist with virtualization. For larger companies or large numbers of incompatible applications, centrally managed solutions may provide better alternatives.

Incompatible Application Workaround

Windows 7, scheduled for general availability in Oct. 2009, is architecturally similar to Vista. Consequently, most applications that are compatible with one will be compatible with the other. Most commercial software vendors now offer Vista-compatible versions of their software and will offer a Windows 7-compatible version. Microsoft has also supplied an application compatibility toolkit to help software developers make any necessary changes to ensure compatibility.