Question 1

Is this Windows XP simulator free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. winXP.si is completely free, needs no account and installs nothing. It is a recreation of the Windows XP interface written in HTML, CSS and JavaScript, so it runs straight in your browser.

Question 2

Is this a real Windows XP emulator?

Accepted Answer

No. It is a simulator, not an emulator: nothing from the original Microsoft operating system is executed. The desktop, windows, menus, sounds and bundled programs are rebuilt from scratch to look and behave like Windows XP, so you cannot run real .exe files on it.

Question 3

Which Windows XP programs can I use?

Accepted Answer

Windows Explorer, My Computer, Notepad, Paint, WordPad, Calculator, Minesweeper, Solitaire, FreeCell, Hearts, Command Prompt, Internet Explorer, Outlook Express, Windows Media Player and Control Panel, plus the Recycle Bin, the Start menu, the taskbar clock and screen savers.

Question 4

Are the files I create saved?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Files, folders, wallpaper, volume and desktop icon positions are stored in your own browser and survive a reload. Nothing is uploaded to a server.

Question 5

Does it work on a phone or tablet?

Accepted Answer

It loads on mobile, but Windows XP was built around a mouse and a keyboard, so a desktop or laptop gives the intended experience. The site can also be installed as an app and works offline.

Windows XP Simulator — a free Windows XP desktop in your browser