I really don't think people should be shocked that hardware is beginning to phase out XP support. The OS is 10 years old next year - that is an eternity in the tech field.

Bob,Have you updated your WinXP x64 to SP2 or newer?

The install disk for XP x64 was SP2. I'll be sticking with Windows 7 x64. FSX runs like a dream on the OS. Plus I happen to agree with Ryan's above sentiments.Regards,Bob

Windows 7 64 hands down.

I was sticking with WinXP_x64 for the longest time, including a bad experience with texture loss using Win7_x64 last Fall. I must say, rebuilding using the HighMemFix and a fresh install of Win7_x64 a month ago has been very promissing. I was experiencing random CTD's near the end of using WinXP_x64, but nothing like it since re-upgrading with the HighMem fix. Very stable now while using the 197.45 drivers.

I was sticking with WinXP_x64 for the longest time, including a bad experience with texture loss using Win7_x64 last Fall. I must say, rebuilding using the HighMemFix and a fresh install of Win7_x64 a month ago has been very promissing. I was experiencing random CTD's near the end of using WinXP_x64, but nothing like it since re-upgrading with the HighMem fix. Very stable now while using the 197.45 drivers.

one more vote here for W7 (x64 ONLY). I just finished a dedicated FSX rig (see sig). With Hey-sus's tweaks (now mandatory for FPS and stability), FSX now runs like a champ. I was a FS9/XP holdout but W7x64 is a very good OS, great features and runs with FSX wonderfully. Making the move to W7 is the ticket. XP