Windows Virtual PC (32-bit)

Windows Virtual PC is a user-friendly OS enhancement app that can help you run multiple PC-based operating systems simultaneously on your home or work PC, with in-depth adjustments for RAM usage, shared storage resources, VMC importing options and more.

Developed directly by Microsoft and optimized to run on Windows 7 and newer operating systems, this virtualization app has full capability to spin up new virtual instances that can run a wide variety of OS’s and make many productivity applications accessible to you, your co-workers, clients and any other network users who can remotely access your PC hardware.

While this application requires at least Windows 7, it fully supports virtual machines with Windows XP and any newer OS. All that you need to set up your own array of custom virtual machines is to have enough system resources, which include capable CPU and several gigabytes of RAM memory.

While many virtualization apps feature complicated and non-intuitive interfaces and toolsets, Windows Virtual PC can easily guide you through the step-by-step procedure for creating a new virtual machine. More seasoned users can always pick a faster route, and set up their machines using an existing VMC file.

Be aware that the latest versions of Windows Virtual PC (distributed after the shutdown of support for “Virtual PC 2007” app) lack some of the popular features, most notably drag-and-drop sharing or direct sharing of folders between host and guest.

Windows Virtual PC is 100% FREE for all users running Windows 7 and newer versions of Windows OS.

Alternatives

While this app offers robust virtualization capabilities, users may also consider alternative virtualization software such as VMware Workstation or Oracle VirtualBox.

Pricing

Windows Virtual PC is available as a FREE download for users of genuine Windows operating systems. However, users may need to purchase licenses for certain guest operating systems they intend to run on the virtual machines.

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.

Also Available: Windows Virtual PC (64-bit)