As you know with Windows 8, Windows 7, Chrome OS, the latest Linux releases, or create isolated virtual machines to safely test new software. 

VMware Player is the best way to run legacy Windows XP applications on Windows 7 or Windows 8. With unity mode, copy-and-paste, drag-and-drop, and networking and printing that require no additional setup, XP applications will run seamlessly on modern hardware.

By follow these steps below you can easy run Windows XP mode in Windows 8:

Step 1: Download and install the latest version of VMware Player on Windows 8.

Step 2: Install Windows XP in VMware Player

Launch VMware Player, click Create a New Virtual Machine, browse to your Windows XP ISO file or your CD/DVD drive, enter a name for your new virtual machine, select a location to save the virtual machine, specify virtual disk size and finally click Finish button.

Then select the newly created virtual machine, click Power on to start installing Windows XP. Follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete Windows XP installation.

Step 3: Install VMware Tools

When Windows XP is running, in the VMware window, click Player/ Manager and then click Install VMware Tools to start the installation. And reboot your Windows XP when finish.

Step 4: Install applications for Windows XP

Now you download and install applications in your new Windows XP (applications not support Windows 8).

Step 5: Manage installed programs

Click Player/ Unity. When unity feature is enabled, you can manage all installed programs in your Windows XP virtual machine right from your Windows 8 Taskbar. This feature also lets you launch programs from Windows 8 Taskbar area without having to open the virtual machine.

When Unity is enabled, simply move the mouse cursor to the extreme left of Windows 8 Taskbar to see cascading Windows XP Start menu just above the Taskbar area (see picture). The program will start in your Windows 8 desktop and you can close, minimize and maximize it from Windows 8 taskbar.

Via Intowindows