Windows Virtual PC (64-bit)

Windows Virtual PC is an easy-to-use OS enhancement tool that allows you to run numerous PC-based operating systems on your home or business PC at the same time, with detailed settings for RAM utilization, shared storage resources, VMC importing choices, and more. 

This virtualization app, developed directly by Microsoft and optimized to run on Windows 7 and newer operating systems, has the full capability to spin up new virtual instances that can run a wide range of operating systems and make many productivity applications available to you, your coworkers, clients, and any other network users who can remotely access your PC hardware. 

While this application requires Windows 7, it also fully supports virtual machines running Windows XP and subsequent operating systems. To put up your own array of unique virtual machines, all you need are enough system resources, such as a powerful CPU and several gigabytes of RAM.

While many virtualization software have difficult and unintuitive interfaces and toolkits, Windows Virtual PC 64 bit can walk you through the step-by-step process of establishing a new virtual machine. More experienced users can always choose a faster method and configure their computers with an existing VMC file.

Users are given the option of naming virtual machines, selecting the desired operating system version, allocating the quantity of RAM memory (automatic or manual), and specifying the size of the virtual storage partition. Advanced options allow you to share CD/DVD/Floppy drives, allocate serial ports, network adapters, sound devices, and hardware-assisted virtualization services to each available VM.

Be warned that the most recent versions of Windows Virtual PC (released following the end of support for the "Virtual PC 2007" app) omit some popular capabilities, most notably drag-and-drop sharing or direct folder sharing between host and guest.

Main Features

• It effortlessly interacts with the Windows desktop environment, letting users to launch virtual machines (VMs) right from their desktop. 
• Compatibility: It works with a variety of operating systems, including different versions of Windows and even Linux distributions. 
• Snapshot and Restore: Users can take snapshots of their virtual machines at any time and restore them to the same condition later, offering flexibility and peace of mind. 
• USB Device Support: Users can connect USB devices to their virtual machines, giving them access to peripherals like printers, external disks, and more. 
• Virtual PC integrates with Windows Explorer, allowing users to effortlessly manage files and directories between host and virtual computers. 

User Interface 

This Microsoft program's user interface is simple and easy to use, with a familiar Windows-style appearance. Users can quickly go through the many settings and choices to configure and manage their virtual machines effectively. 

Installation & Setup 

Installing this desktop software is simple. Users can download the installation package from the Microsoft website or FileSalad and then follow the on-screen directions to complete the installation. Once installed, users can create new virtual machines and change their settings as needed. 

How To Use?

• Start the application from the Start menu. 
• Create a new virtual machine by clicking the "New" button and then following the instructions to configure the virtual machine parameters. 
• Install the selected operating system onto the virtual machine. 
• Customize the virtual machine's memory allocation, virtual hard drive capacity, and network setup. 
• Launch the virtual machine and experience seamless virtualization on your Windows desktop. 

FAQ 

Q. Can I run Windows Virtual PC on Windows 11 or 10? 
Yes, Windows Virtual PC is compatible with the Windows 11/10 Professional, Enterprise, and Education editions. 

Q. Does Windows Virtual PC support 64-bit guest operating systems? 
Yes, it can run both 32- and 64-bit guest operating systems. 

Q. Can I run MacOS on a Windows Virtual PC? 
No, Windows Virtual PC is intended to run both Windows and certain Linux distributions. To run macOS on Windows, you'll need to use virtualization software like VMware or VirtualBox. 

Q. Is Windows Virtual PC free? 
The application is free to download for users of genuine Windows operating systems. 

Q. Can I operate numerous virtual computers concurrently? 
Yes, it allows users to operate many virtual machines at the same time, as long as their system matches the hardware requirements. 

System Requirements

It requires a host operating system running a supported version of Windows, such as Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Minimum hardware requirements include a compatible processor with virtualization support, sufficient RAM, and disk space to accommodate virtual machines.

PROS

• Seamless integration with the Windows desktop environment.
• Wide compatibility with various operating systems.
• Snapshot and restore functionality for easy system backup and recovery.
• USB device support for enhanced flexibility.
• Intuitive user interface for ease of use.

CONS

• Limited support for macOS and other non-Windows operating systems.
• No longer updated on the official website.
• Performance may vary depending on hardware resources and virtual machine configurations.
• Some advanced features may require additional setup and configuration.