certain versions of windows 7 have the ability to run xp with in 7 in a virtual mode so that you can then run your old programs that way. The best suggestion is to try to communicate with the programs creators to see if there is a version or an update that will make it compatible many do have an update. If you have windows 7 home premium it does not have that xp function but you still can run a virtual machine set up with in windows 7 and run your programs that way. You would need to read up and understand how to set up and run a virtual machine, there are some free versions available. Make older programs run in this version of Windows Windows XP Mode Windows XP Mode Learn to Use Windows 7's Compatibility Mode with Older Apps there are a few links you may want to check out.

Hate it. Had to get it last March after XP computer toasted itself. Just this past weekend I received an e-mail from HP asking if I wanted to extend the warranty - with the ability to call a tech for assistance. I took it. I called them a lot during the early days since Best Buy sold me a printer and a flash drive for factory back-up that were compatible only with Windows 7 and the key card for Word 2013 - and I hate it - could only be used once and of course it didn't work the first time. Best Buy was useless and there is no way I should have had to pay the Geek Squad to hook up a basic printer - I didn't, I called the printer manufacturer and HP. HP had already sent me a warning re making sure my computer could handle Win 8.1 - I decided to just not even try it. The tech I spoke with when I bought the extended warranty suggested I not do it. Our Internet provider does not support Win 8 or Internet 10 so that is another problem. And if your problem is anything other than the Internet connection failing they transfer you to a "specialist" and charge you. Cdns. already pay a lot for basic services. Then there is the e-mail issue. My husband's office is going to stick with Win 7 and Word 2010. I can't pay to switch back to Win 7 because I never had it. But the difference between Win 7 and Win 8 is great - same with Word 2010 and Word 2013. All I use the computer for is Word, Internet and e-mail. I don't shop or belong to Facebook etc. I use a keyboard - and HP added a few keys so I am making mistakes that I never did before despite typing 120 wpm! I helped a friend book an air ticket using her tablet - I don't want a tablet - I need a real mouse. The future is looking grim computer wise. Then there is the cell phone issue. I don't have one - did for 2 years. I don't text. I would just like to have a plain cell phone that functions only as a phone. I have the phone that I used for the 2 years but it won't accommodate a pay as you go card. I don't understand how people can watch TV on a tiny little screen while driving yet need a 60 inch screen at home. I guess I am just too old!

Cynic- I was searching forums to read what people were saying. I've since read more. A number of people were saying their system crashes all the time with Opera. Then others agreed and advised against mixing the too. The funny thing or frustrating thing, mine is freezing up constantly with IE7. I've only been using it for three days now, but was also having that problem recently before the switch. I have DSL and, as of three days ago, have a brand new and MUCH faster desk top. So I'm not really sure what the problem is. My connection seems fine. Of all the reading I've done (which really isn't all that much) there really seems to be an equal number of people that either prefer Opera or FF. With a scattered few that still really like IE7 (compared to IE6). I'll keep doing my homework. Thanks :o)

I see nothing wrong with doing what you propose. However in the summer with your window open there may be some odor