Basic question about Windows 10/11 virtual machines.
Basic question about Windows 10/11 virtual machines.
Running a 12-year-old machine is what I'm doing right now, and I'm not very experienced with computers. I just got a good deal on an RTX2070 XC3 graphics card, which made me seriously consider setting up my first PC around it. I'm exploring options and for now, I have a question about my operating system. I know I'll likely need Windows 11, but my main goal is to run a Windows 10 virtual machine because some old games won't work on it. In about a year, I plan to buy a Windows 10 Pro thumb drive and then upgrade to Windows 11 when necessary. Eventually, I might reinstall Windows 10 Pro as a VM. So the main question is: is this approach correct?
Those games were older titles. They should work on Windows 11 if it supports them. For the 12th Intel system (or when the 13th generation arrives), you'll need Windows 11 to get the best performance. With AMD, we'll have to check later. And this depends on whether both AMD and Intel release compatible drivers for Windows 10.
I have four titles in mind: Fallout New Vegas (2010), Silent Hunter 4 (2007), Silent Hunter 5 (2010), and I’m certain about the others. I frequently play Fallout New Vegas and want to confirm it runs smoothly on my Win 11 system, specifically the Rome edition of Total War Emperor Edition (2013). I also keep playing both Silent Hunter games.
Online discussions show ease in using it. Feedback exists for both Windows 10 and 11 versions, though many relate to modifications made by players. Some recommend enabling Win7 compatibility mode. No one seems to report running issues, likely because of its age. Common fixes include:
- Running the game in Windows 7 compatibility mode.
- Adjusting folder permissions to 'Everyone' with full access.
- Disabling full-screen compatibility if needed (settings under executable properties).
- Allowing display scaling (often problematic on monitors with high scaling settings).
- Editing config files manually for certain titles.
- Using a DOS emulator such as DOSBox, since Windows removed 16-bit support.
- Purchasing older games from platforms like GOG.com, which provide patches or official support.
These solutions address the challenges players face with compatibility and functionality.
Consider trying the new system first without a product key. It will stay in trial mode with a water mark reminding you to activate later and hiding personalization features. This lets you explore freely for as long as needed. Once ready, simply buy it and enter the key through Settings > System > Activate Windows—no reinstall required. Make sure you choose the correct edition before purchasing; otherwise, you'll have to reinstall from scratch. You can also use Windows 10 if preferred. Official Windows 11 download: https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/software.../windows11 Official Windows 10 download: https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/software.../windows10