Tutorial: Running Windows XP on a Virtual Machine

Introduction

• Experience nostalgia by running Windows XP on modern PCs.
• Installing directly on modern hardware isn't ideal.
• Running it on a virtual machine on top of a modern OS is efficient and fun.
• Example: Windows XP on Windows 11.

Benefits

• Access internet and USB drives.
• Share folders and drag/drop files (from Windows 11 to XP).
• Runs light and fast due to low hardware requirements of XP.

Terminology

• Host Operating System: Current OS with virtualization program (e.g., Windows 11).
• Guest Operating System: OS running on the virtual machine (e.g., Windows XP).

Setting Up the Environment

Required Software and Components

1. Virtualization Software: Oracle VirtualBox.
   • Free open-source software developed by Oracle Corporation.
2. VirtualBox Extension Pack.
   • Download and install for additional features.
3. Python Core Win32 API (Optional but recommended).
   • Necessary for full capabilities of VirtualBox.

Installing Python Core Win32 API

• Download from the Python download page.
• Check "Use admin privileges" and "Add python.exe to path" during installation.
• Restart PC after installation.

Installing VirtualBox

• Download from VirtualBox website.
• Follow onscreen instructions.
• Install Extension Pack: Follow onscreen instructions after downloading.

Creating and Configuring a Virtual Machine

Preparation

• Obtain a Windows XP ISO file and product key.
• Decide hardware configuration for VM (e.g., RAM, CPU, Hard Disk).

Steps

1. Open VirtualBox.
2. Create a New VM:
   • Name the VM (e.g., "Win XP").
   • Select ISO image (Windows XP file).
   • Choose "skip unattended installation" for manual setup.
   • Set hardware configurations.
3. Finish setup and create VM.

Installing Windows XP

Process

1. Start the VM.
2. Follow installation prompts (e.g., Enter, F8 for license agreement).
3. Do not partition the disk; format with NTFS.
4. Complete installation by following prompts.

Enhancing Functionality with Guest Additions

Installation

1. Insert Guest Addition CD image from the VirtualBox menu.
2. Install and reboot the Windows XP machine.

Features

• Full Screen Mode: Enable full screen for better display.
• USB Device Access: Connect and access USB devices.
• Shared Folders: Access folders from the host OS.
• Clipboard and Drag/Drop: Shared clipboard allows file transfers.

Conclusion

• Successfully set up Windows XP on a virtual machine.
• Enjoy the nostalgic OS with modern functionality.

Notes

• Ensure to keep the shared folder permanent if needed regularly.
• Adjust hardware configurations based on personal preference and available resources.

Thank you for watching this tutorial.