How can I modify Windows 8.1 to work w/ non-supported CPU?

How can I modify an Windows 8.1 ISO so it can work with a non-supported CPU? I would like to make it work with a Pentium 4 2.8Ghz HT Northwood CPU. Rest of specs; 2GB RAM, ATI 4650 DDR3 1GB, 250GB HDD. Computer is a SONY VAIO PCV-RS430G. I updated its BIOS to latest which dates back to 2004 but did not add the NX/PAE that is needed for Win 8.1

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Jesusv said:

How can I modify an Windows 8.1 ISO so it can work with a non-supported CPU? I would like to make it work with a Pentium 4 2.8Ghz HT Northwood CPU. Rest of specs; 2GB RAM, ATI 4650 DDR3 1GB, 250GB HDD. Computer is a SONY VAIO PCV-RS430G. I updated its BIOS to latest which dates back to 2004 but did not add the NX/PAE that is needed for Win 8.1

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Can't be done. With systems prior to Windows 8 NX/PAE were recommended but not required. With Windows 8 they are now required features. It is not just a matter of bypassing the initial check for compatibility. That is just there to prevent installing the OS on incompatible hardware. To change this you would require access to the Windows source code (not going to happen) and the services of an expert programmer (very expensive). It would also be a violation of Microsoft's EULA. I mention this only as a matter of interest, not as even a remotely practical idea.

Even if you could somehow get around the incompatible CPU you would still have a serious problem. Specifically the lack of Windows 8 drivers for your motherboard. Nobody is going to go to the considerable trouble of writing Windows 8 drivers for a motherboard that isn't compatible with the OS.

Yep, this can't be done and it would be too much potential trouble even if you could "trick" Win8.1 into installing. Time to dump this old PC or put some distro of Linux on it and call it a day...

azasadny said:

Yep, this can't be done and it would be too much potential trouble even if you could "trick" Win8.1 into installing. Time to dump this old PC or put some distro of Linux on it and call it a day...

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Jesusv, I would go with Linux Mint if dead set on continuing to use the PC yet have something modern as an OS. Curious if you still use the 3.5" diskette drive?

Ubuntu. Install that.

Many of the Intel Centrino and Pentium M computers don't support PAE/Physical Address Extension, I have a Dell Inspiron 700m that won't run Linux Mint 16 or 17 but is quite happy with Linux Mint 13. You could download the LiveDVD .iso file, use burning program to create the LiveDVD and boot to it to try. If it works for you there is an Install icon on the Desktop. It is a relatively easy transition from WinXP.

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