
Running windows xp on macbook update#
Thus, Windows is barely functional, and you can’t update to SP2 at that point.
Running windows xp on macbook install#
Yes, you can still boot into XP if you install without the Service Pack, but you won’t be able to load the Mac drivers from the disc that Boot Camp created for you. I inadvertently used a base install disc without SP2 and ended up having to completely re-do the process. Apple says that you have to use an XP install disc that already has Service Pack 2 (SP2) on it, and they’re not kidding. Thus, I set up a 20 GB XP partition, leaving a bit over 30 GB free space on my main partition. Partition size: I have a 100 GB hard drive in my MacBook Pro, with a little over 50 GB free space. Fortunately, this can be done ‘on the fly, ‘ so there’s no need to re-format the drive before you can do this. Next up, you’ll be asked to partition your hard drive. When you first run it, you will be given the opportunity to burn a CD of drivers that allows XP to interface with your Mac hardware (it makes the graphics hardware play well with Windows, re-maps some keys, etc.). Next, download and install the Boot Camp software. Don’t just guess… Fire up the Software Update panel and check to be sure. Also make sure that your system software is updated, and that you have the newest firmware. Especially when you’re re-partitioning the drive, as you’ll have to do pretty much right off the bat. I didn’t have any problems with losing data, but you never know. Step zero: Backup everything on your drive. And finally, it’s great for web development, as I can now check what things look like from both the Mac and PC sides.įor those that are interested, I’ve thrown together a few notes on the installation process… It’s also nice for accessing the occasional website that requires Win/IE (there are still some out there). Why would I want to do this? Mainly because I have some work-related software that is PC-only, and I don’t have a PC at home. I’ve set up a dual-boot configuration using Apple’s Boot Camp, and it’s working great… In fact, I’m writing this from post from Win/Firefox right now. After one relatively major false-start, I’m now running Windows XP on my MacBook Pro.
