Vista installed,want to install XP

Is it possible to add XP to an external HD ,so that I can use Vista & XP when ever I chose.

The reason being is I have a lot of bought software not compatible with Vista,and I do have a full version of XP.

 

Installing an OS on an external drive is not something you want to pursue. But, you can install XP on your hard drive, on a separate partition. See How to dual boot Vista and XP (with Vista installed first) -- the step-by-step guide with screenshots

 

I'm not sure if that article stresses the importance of making sure that you have all the XP drivers that you need for your particular hardware. That's the usual stumbling block.

 

Good point, augiedoggie. Indeed, the article does not cover that aspect of installing Win XP.

 

Oh ecckles, have you tried to install your programs under Vista's 'compatibility' mode first?

 

Augiedoggie;
yes that was the first thing I did,and for a while I could make most work in XP compatible mode,but with the continueous microsoft updates downloaded over time the more problems Ive been getting until most of the older software dont work at at all,but is still ok on an XP Pc.
I wil follow your last instruction and try and set up a dual OS system.
Many thanks to all

 

Apologises to usafveteren,it was he who suggested & gave the link on setting up a dual boot