Dual-booting Windows 8.1 and XP

[propjob]

Hello,

 

I’m considering adding an XP partition to a 32-bit, Windows 8.1 computer so I can run Combat Flight Simulator (CFS) on the big monitor. I have some concerns about this.

 

Will having XP on my computer will leave an open door to malware, etc.?

 

Will I be able to download the last batch of XP updates, including SP3, from a reputable website? Microsoft still appears to have the update to SP3 available on its site, but I don’t know if it has the updates that are added to SP3.

 

If I elect to boot into XP and run CFS, will my computer be safe? Would it be safer if I disconnected the network cable before booting into XP. That computer is wireless.

 

Will the XP partition be a risk when I boot into Win8.1 with the network cable connected?

 

I understand that installing XP will overwrite 8.1, but I’ve downloaded and installed Easy BCD 2.2, so I can select which operating system to run.

 

I would appreciate hearing from you about these issues. Thanks.

 

Art