Downgrading XP Pro to Me

[tbalazs]

A friend wants her XP Pro downgraded to WinMe because there are several games she has that won't play on XP (particularly The Sims).

Is there a way of getting them to play on XP Pro?
Can Me be installed over XP so as to preserve data and the installed programs?

Thanks,
Tony.
x-posted to XP Pro forum

 

[wolluf]

1. You can try compatibility mode in XP (look at properties of shortcuts of games concerned - compatibility tab. Try the options.

2. ME can't be installed over XP to preserve installed programs. If XP is installed on fat32 filestore, you could install ME on top without formatting. If you install into \windows, it will wipe that folder - but the rest will remain (the Program files folder will still be there - but many apps won't run as no registry entries/missing dlls - and no shortcuts on start menu). If you install into another (not \windows) folder, all current data should be left untouched - same proviso about program files. 'simple' apps - eg, just executable or with few supporting files in their own folders - will run - assuming supported in ME. If ntfs filestore - then you'll just have to back up, remove the ntfs partition & create a new fat32 one for ME to install.