Microsoft® Windows 7 In Depth

A. Using Virtualization on Windows 7

As mentioned in Chapter 2, a virtual machine (VM) program simulates the hardware functions of a PC within a process running on another PC. Virtualization is a handy way for individuals and organizations to run multiple operating systems without having to set up dual- or multi-boot environments or purchasing additional hardware. IT departments use virtualization to test software updates and patches before rolling them out to end users, and developers use virtualization when creating new software programs. End users most commonly use virtualization to run older Windows operating systems and applications that require such operating systems on newer versions of Windows. (This is where Windows 7 XP Mode usually ...