Laptops With With Xp Professional And Windows 7 Prof..

[alzheimer]

Now then -I have a knotty problem for all you PC techno geeks out there...LOL
Is there such a think as a laptop that has BOTH XP Professional AND Windows 7Prof capabilities?
I know there are a few that support Windows 7 AND 8 but I have a chum who is a died- in -the - wool XP Prof supporter ( a bit like myself but I HAVE managed to upgrade!) but she would like to have a laptop that suports both and has tasked me with the job of tracking one down...eek!
I have had no joy so far but figured I could depend on my fellow AB's to point me in the right direction..please and thanks!!

[Buenchico]

Any computer can have multiple operating systems on it. (e.g.you could have Windows 8 and Linux if you wanted to). You need to partition the hard drive, which tricks your computer into thinking that there are two separate drives, each with their own operating system. Then you install a different operating system onto each partition. When you boot up the computer you'll be asked which one you want to use.

It's not a particularly tricky task but it can be tedious, as you need to install all of the necessary software and drivers onto both partitions.

This Microsoft page was provided for people wanting to add Vista alongside an existing operating system but the principle is the same irrespective of which operating systems are used:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows-vista/install-more-than-one-operating-system-multiboot

This is also relevant:
http://www.wikihow.com/Install-Two-Operating-Systems-on-One-Computer

It's unlikely that you'll be able to buy a laptop with two versions of Windows on it (other than to special order). I'd recommend having a word with the guys at A C Computer Warehouse; they might be able to offer your friend something:
http://www.accomputerwarehouse.com/
Otherwise try a local independent dealer. (Places like PC world can't even offer you Windows 7. It's Windows 8 or nothing there!)

[VHG]

I doubt you will find a laptop with both copies of Windows on it.

However it is possible to set up Windows so you can boot from one of two different versions of Windows.

So Windows XP could be installed, then Windows 7 could be installed (the oldest version of Windows should be installed first).

Then when the computer start up it asks you which version you want to boot up from.

HOWEVER.

I really really really don't think you should be encouraging ANYONE to install Windows XP or to stay on it.

It came out in 2001 and in computer terms that is an age ago.

Also from April next year Microsoft will no longer support XP (or provide fixes or updates) which means it will get more and more vulnerable to viruses, malware and other security issues.

I use Windows 7 on all the PCs in my house and I find it a wonderful operating system.

It is not that different from XP, but is far more secure and all new hardware like printers etc. will be able to run on Windows 7.

I would tell this person there ISN'T a laptop with both operating systems on it, and encourage them to move to Windows 7.

Windows 7 is FAR better all round than Windows XP. This is particularly true "under the covers" which most people don't see, but it has far more security built in than XP ever had.

p.s. I bet they don't still drive round in a Ford Anglia do they, thinking it is better than modern cars. Well XP is just like a Ford Anglia compared to Windows 7.

[alzheimer]

WOW - such fast and informative AB's...LOL I knew I could rely on somebody out there to keep me right!
Now then - this is a steep learning curve for me too - as I have to say that I ADORED my old XP and when my new Windows 7 failed and had to go back for a total reinstall.....It felt like pulling on a pair of old gloves when I reverted to my old IBM with its XP Prof!!
However I take your points both of you and thank for all your advice...I will remind my chum about the lack of support and more importantly - the security angle.
Sorry I can't nominate you BOTH for "Best Answer" - please take it as read!!

[alzheimer]

PS By the way VHG..my old chum is a fiesty old character who doesn't drive a Ford Anglia - she drives a 1958 Landrover.....no kidding - and it passed its MOT every time first shot - until such time as these vintage vehicles no longer needed to ...LOL

[galeck1947]

If you want to have both Windows 7 and Windows XP on the same laptop you can run XP as a virtual OS .Microsoft had a virtual program that worked with Windows 7 and XP as a virtual which was free check out the Microsoft website and see if it still available . With XP now at the end of its support life it may not be available.