How to Install XP Drivers in Vista

Windows Vista is an operating system created and developed by the Microsoft Corporation. Vista is intended to be the direct successor of the Windows XP version of the Windows operating system. Due to software differences, Windows XP drivers are not directly compatible with Windows Vista. This technical challenge can be overcome if you install XP drivers in Vista so that your old XP devices work with the new operating system.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Download the respective installer package for the driver you wish to install on Windows Vista. The installer package is located on the original manufacturer's installation disk that came with the device you're installing. It may also be available from the device manufacturer's website.

2. Use your mouse to right-click on the installer package for the driver.

3. Click "Properties" from the pop-up menu. A preferences window will appear on the screen.

4. Click the tab that reads "Compatibility."

5. Click the check box next to "Run this progam in compatibility mode for...."

6. Select "Windows XP" from the drop-down menu and press the "OK" button to apply the changes and close the window.

7. Install XP drivers in Vista. Double-click the XP driver's installer package. Windows Vista will now open the driver in Vista Compatibility Mode. The Windows Vista operating system will tell the XP driver that it is running on a Windows XP machine, thus allowing the installation process to continue where it would otherwise have stopped.

Tips & Warnings

• Upgrade to a Windows Vista-specific driver as soon as possible to take advantage of performance upgrades.