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Prepare your software
Since Windows XP is based on the Windows 2000 kernel, your 32-bit Windows 98 and Me software should run on the new OS. Even with newly developed compatibility and DOS Virtual Machine features, however, you may have trouble with older games, 16-bit Windows apps, and software that runs older peripherals such as scanners and external disk drives.
Microsoft has tested more than 1,200 popular applications under Windows XP. Plus, the OS automatically configures itself with specific compatibility parameters so that it can run older apps that haven't been tested. If Microsoft hasn't tested the specific older applications you need to run, such as an old Windows 3.x version of Peachtree accounting software or something your IT department wrote back in 1996, XP prompts you to select a compatibility mode (specifically, which version of Windows) you think the program will run under; check the product requirements to know which mode to choose.
Many utilities and virus-protection apps won't run correctly or at all until patched. For example, Norton SystemWorks 2001 requires that you install a Windows 2000 patch before its automatic monitoring and event-scheduling features work under XP.
XP will not allow you to install software that runs background operations that could interfere with the operating system's own built-in, system-file-protection features. This means that hackers trying to replace your TCP/IP Internet communications drivers should fail. XP also warns you if you are about to install drivers not authenticated with a Microsoft digital signature. We've installed unsigned drivers that work fine, but expect driver signing to become the norm.
Microsoft's application compatibility tests
Microsoft plans to post its Upgrade Advisor compatibility tool on the Windows XP Web site; it will let you check your present system and software for incompatible devices or applications. The tool should check your hardware as well, and, unlike the old Windows 2000 compatibility program, this one dynamically updates itself over the Internet each time you start it up on a Net-connected machine (so that if, for instance, Microsoft adds driver support, the checker will know). So far, Microsoft hasn't posted a list of troublesome applications or notes about specific software.
Ask the manufacturer
Even if your software doesn't appear in Microsoft's list of compatible software, it may still run under XP. Call your software maker or look on its Web site to find out about known bugs or compatibility problems. If XP compatibility isn't discussed anywhere on the vendor's Web site or on FAQ lists, you should check for any information concerning Windows 2000 that may also apply to XP. If the app causes problems on 2000, it will likely stumble with XP as well. Call technical support if you have more questions or concerns.
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