Virtual Operating System Emulator for Windows Computers
There are many instances when one might need to run more than one Windows operating system simultaneously. From diagnosing a hardware problem to bench testing new software, Microsoft Virtual PC is a tool that enables users to enjoy a flexible and expansive Windows environment.
Primary Applications and Features
Microsoft Virtual PC is meant to be used in conjunction with the Windows 7 operating system. Once installed, users will be able to toggle back and forth between each node with a single click. These are referred to as “host” and “guest” systems.Most productivity applications are supported by the guest system, so running common programs such as Adobe Acrobat or Windows Media Player will not present an issue.The total file size of this bundle is 31.6 megabytes.
Basic System Requirements
In order to install Microsoft Virtual PC, it is recommended that at least two gigabytes of RAM are available alongside a minimum of 20 megabytes of hard disk space. Please note that while compatible with Windows 7, this system will not work with Windows 7 Professional or Windows Vista Business Service Pack 1. In case you are looking for other free alternative applications, we recommend you to download VMWare Player or VirtualBox.
Virtual PC lets you create separate virtual machines on your Windows desktop, each of which virtualizes the hardware of a complete physical computer. Use virtual machines to run operating systems such as MS-DOS, Windows, and OS/2.
You can run multiple operating systems at once on a single physical computer and switch between them as easily as switching applications—instantly, with a mouse click. Virtual PC is perfect for any scenario in which you need to support multiple operating systems, whether you use it for tech support, legacy application support, training, or just for consolidating physical computers.
Configurability
After installing Virtual PC, you can configure it to suit your requirements. Virtual PC has a number of settings that control how the product interacts with the physical computer, allocates resources, and so on.
Easy installation
Virtual PC is simple to install. Any administrator can run the Virtual PC guided setup program, and installation doesn’t require a reboot. The first time Virtual PC starts, it guides you through the process of creating the first virtual machine.
Standardization
Configure and test upgrades and installations on virtual machines, and then you can deploy throughout your company a standard configuration that avoids problems caused by minor differences between hardware platforms.
Convenience
Users switch between operating systems as easily as they switch between applications. They simply click the window containing the virtual machine. They can pause individual virtual machines so they stop using CPU cycles on the physical computer. They can also save virtual machines to disk and restore them at a later time. The restoration process normally takes a few seconds—much faster than restarting the guest operating system.
Host integration
Users can copy, paste, drag, and drop between guest and host. Virtual PC provides additions that you install in a guest operating system to enable this functionality.
