Seamless Mode isn't completely seamless; there are couple issues with it. In multi-monitor setups, the virtual application only lives on the primary monitor. Also, virtual apps don't want to play along with the Windows 7 Snap feature. Their Windows needed to be manually resized. It's also important to note that virtual applications and Desktop Mode cannot be used simultaneously. Finally, you'll need to keep in mind that a full OS needs to boot before a virtual app can be run, so a little patience will be needed on that first launch.

Despite its few limitations, IT admins will find that XP Mode provides a viable means of coping with legacy applications while fully modernizing the desktop environment.

Michael Scalisi is an IT manager based in Alameda, California.