Microsoft has done something that they do not do very often…they are giving away software! Virtual PC 2004 is the freebie which allows you to run other operating systems without the need to partition your hard drive. Virtual PC 2004 can run in Windows XP/2000 and here is a list of operating systems it supports:
So if you are like me then the first thought that popped into your head is how old this software is. I figured that is why they are giving it out for free, but after reading further Microsoft said “Microsoft is also offering the free download of Virtual PC 2007, with support for Windows Vista in 2007.” I have to admit that I am thoroughly impressed!
I am not quite sure how this will affect the virtual PC market that VMware currently holds, but I am sure that it won’t help any. The one thing that Microsoft probably won’t be able to do is make Virtual PC compatible with Linux. VMware will probably still hold that crown.
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Tags: Software
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so you can only run other windows’ operating systems?
Yes, you can only run other Windows Operating Systems on this. The compatible operating systems are listed above.
-Ryan
Do you have to own a copy of the OS’s listed to be able to use them? or is it all included in this software?
You will, of course, have to own a copy of the Operating System that you wish to install on the Virtual PC. That is probably why Microsoft is offering Virtual PC for free. There always has to be a catch.
-Ryan
I find this software very good to setup testing environments - either to assure software is compatible across different setups, or to configure an auto installation utility. Of course, there are probably many more uses for this.
I use it to test software as well. It really helps keep my computer clean because I first download and install new software on the Virtual PC. If it runs good I install it on my real OS. That way I keep my registry and folders as clean as possible!
-Ryan
You can use Vmware on Linux or Windows and run any operating system. Plus it’s free (but not open source). I think I’ll stick with one less controlling Microsoft product :).
No Thanks… I have a few machines that can cover the other MS Crap…
It’s time for me to give up the Ghost and let DOS, 95, 98 and ME Die a very well deserved Death…
I have moved on in my life as My Ex would say…
The O/S list above represents the supported systems. I’ve run Ubuntu (5.x) on Virtual PC without problems. Key issue is that exotic hardware and combos may not work; but simple configurations should work without problems. In my case, I was able to get the full GNOME desktop under Ubuntu working.
Your mileage will vary.