Quick overview:
Hardly any operating system has been used for as long as Windows XP - and this history still casts its shadow today: There are still many programs in use that were once written for Windows XP. Under Windows 7, there was a compatibility mode so that precisely this software could continue to run. Since Windows 8, the official side has unfortunately dispensed with this. However, you can still use XP mode under Windows 8 with these instructions.
Microsoft does not officially offer an XP mode
Using XP mode under Windows 8 is therefore not an official Microsoft solution. It is necessary to install the free virtualization software "VirtualBox" and the "VMLite" extension. Equipped with this software, Windows XP can be started within your existing Windows 8. Although this normally requires enormous hardware resources, in the case of Windows XP you benefit from the age and undemanding nature of the operating system. To start the virtualization, Windows XP must first be installed - exactly as you are used to installing it on a conventional computer. VirtualBox first asks for the path to the operating system installation file. This can be a file on the computer or a storage medium.
Windows 8.1 tablets with limited RAM
In the following installation step, the memory is allocated to the virtual operating system. The size of the RAM is particularly important here: Windows XP should have at least 512 MB RAM available to be able to work quickly. Windows 8, on the other hand, requires around 2 GB to function satisfactorily. For most modern laptops and desktop computers, this should not be an obstacle; however, some tablets are only equipped with a total of 2 GB - in this case, you should rather expect a restrained performance. The default setting for updates should be selected so that Windows XP is updated to the latest version. However, as support for the operating system was discontinued by Microsoft in April 2014, no further updates are to be expected. If you open VirtualBox now, you can select the entry for Windows XP. The system is started in a separate window. Unfortunately, USB support is not implemented. This means that XP mode under Windows 8 is not suitable for operating an old printer or scanner for which there are no up-to-date drivers.
XP mode under Windows 8: Saving expensive software licenses
If you bought an expensive software license a few years ago, the switch to Windows 8 may have been disappointing: Many older programs will not run, unlike under Windows 7, Microsoft does not provide a remedy for this problem. With VirtualBox and a valid Windows XP license, you can easily install the entire operating system under Windows 8. Apart from the lack of support for USB ports, you then have a fully-fledged XP computer at your disposal if you wish.
The Windows XP logo comes from Microsoft
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