How to Run Windows 7 Inside Virtual PC 2007
A virtual PC allows you to install and use multiple operating systems on your computer. If you prefer to use some operating systems for specific tasks, you may find it helpful to use a virtual PC. Before installing a virtual PC, it is highly recommended that you ensure that your computer has sufficient system resources, especially in terms of hard disk space and RAM. If you lack adequate system resources, your computer may run slowly.
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Instructions
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Go to the Virtual PC 2007 homepage (see Resources).
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Click the "Download" button under the "Files in This Download" section. You must select the "Download" button that corresponds with your computer's processor--32-bit or 64-bit. Install the software by double-clicking on the downloaded file and then following the prompts.
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Click "Start," type "Virtual PC" in the search field, and double-click the program to run Virtual PC 2007. If you use Windows XP or an earlier operating system, you can find Virtual PC 2007 by clicking on "All Programs," then choosing the program.
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Select the "New" button, then choose "Next" to continue. Choose "Create a virtual machine" from the three lists of options and then select "Next."
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Type a name for your new virtual machine. The name you entered is automatically stored in the "My Virtual Machines" folder. If you would like to save the name in another location, select "Browse," and choose a different location.
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Choose the operating system you would like to install from the dropdown list. Since by default Windows 7 is not included in the list of options, select "Other" as the operating system, and then choose "Next."
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Allocate the amount of RAM you would like Virtual PC 2007 to use by choosing the "Adjusting the RAM" option and inputting the amount of RAM. If you do not want to allocate RAM manually, choose the "Using the recommended RAM" option. Virtual PC 2007, by default, uses 662MB of your PC's RAM.
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Select "Next," choose "A new virtual hard disk," click "Next," choose a location to create your virtual hard disk, then specify a name for the hard drive. Be sure to specify your virtual hard drive size. Microsoft recommends a minimum of 16 GB of hard drive space. Select the "Finish" button. The Virtual PC Console window will then open.
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Select "Start," insert your Windows 7 CD in your PC's CD drive, then hit "Enter" on your keyboard when the Virtual PC console prompts you. You do not need to restart your PC, as your system will restart within the console. After the system restarts, the Windows 7 installing environment displays.
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Install Windows 7 in the console by following the prompts, then close the Virtual PC by selecting "Close" from the top right button.
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Open your Virtual PC from the "Start" menu, then select "Virtual Windows 7" from the box, and select "Start."
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References
Resources
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