dfonda, I have been forced into using the virtual XP mode on my main desktop. In short, it works but it is certainly not ideal. I have a six year old high speed HP scanner with document feeder that still works flawlessly. I use this scanner with an App called Paperport to scan all personal documents, bills, manuals, etc. This gives me a very convenient paperless filing system that is incredibly convenient and works very well. I have been using Paperport for almost 13 years so I am now very dependent on it. Unfortunately the scanner will not work under W7 and replacing it with an equivalent new one would cost about $700. Therefore I must use the XP compatibility mode. Although I can use the the scanner in this mode, the computer is noticeably slower and clunkier. Paperport also crashes unless I go through a little ritual I discovered by accident when I start Paperport. Also, Paperport, in XP mode, has some quirks that are annoying but easy to work around. Bottom line, if you absolutely have no other choice, the XP mode will be useful but it is not by any means the fast stable performer it was when installed by itself.