Which Windows version for Fusion or Parallels?

[MacNewb99]

Just got my aluminum imac yesterday and know I am going to buy VMWare Fusion or Parallels in order to run Windows. I would like to run XP, but after reading through this forum, am confused as to which is compatible with these programs. Is XP 32-bit with SP2 the best? Is it compatible?

Thanks in advance for helping a lost newbie.

 

[wrldwzrd89]

XP 32-bit with Service Pack 2 (or 3) is a good choice, as is Vista (but only if your Windows applications work with Vista). I use Windows XP 32-bit with SP3 on my Parallels 3.0 install, and it works perfectly.

 

[rhett7660]

Have been running windows XP SP3 on my fusion setup no problems.

 

[Father Jack]

If you really must, then xP (with the latest SP) is the only sensible choice ..

 

[Snowbound]

I ran vista for a while on fusion on my MBP. I decided, as many have, that with only needing limited windows use, XP is smaller and more efficient (than vista at least). I would go with XP SP2 or or SP3.

 

[MacNewb99]

If you really must, then xP (with the latest SP) is the only sensible choice ..

I must.

Thank you for the advice.

I ran vista for a while on fusion on my MBP. I decided, as many have, that with only needing limited windows use, XP is smaller and more efficient (than vista at least). I would go with XP SP2 or or SP3.

Great point. I only need it to run Office, so XP with SP2 or 3 sounds like the best option.

 

[MM07]

I'll post my 2 cents as well. I am using XP SP3 with Fusion and Bootcamp with no issues. I also use Office 2007 and Money 2004.

 

[sushi]

I would chime in with Windows XP w/SP3.

It is a mature OS that works well.

 

[t-johnson]

Just got my aluminum imac yesterday and know I am going to buy VMWare Fusion or Parallels in order to run Windows. I would like to run XP, but after reading through this forum, am confused as to which is compatible with these programs. Is XP 32-bit with SP2 the best? Is it compatible?

Thanks in advance for helping a lost newbie.

I would recommend Fusion.

 

[lascott]

I'm using XP Pro on my fusion install. No need for vista, I only use it for quicken.