Windows Virtual PC (64-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 64 bit 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.

During the creation of virtual machines, users are given the opportunity to name them, pick the desired operating system version, set up the amount of RAM memory they can allocate (automatic or manual), and specify the size of the virtual storage partition. Advanced settings include the capability to share CD/DVD/Floppy drives, assign serial ports, network adapters, sound devices, and hardware-assisted virtualization services for each available VM.

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.

Main Features

• Seamless Integration: It seamlessly integrates with the Windows desktop environment, allowing users to launch virtual machines (VMs) directly from their desktop.
• Compatibility: It supports a wide range of operating systems, including various versions of Windows and even Linux distributions.
• Snapshot and Restore: Users can take snapshots of their virtual machines at any point in time and restore them to that exact state later, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
• USB Device Support: It allows users to connect USB devices to their virtual machines, enabling access to peripherals such as printers, external drives, and more.
• Integration with Windows Explorer: Virtual PC provides integration with Windows Explorer, allowing users to easily manage files and folders between their host and virtual machines.

User Interface

The user interface of this MS program is intuitive and straightforward, with a familiar Windows-style design. Users can easily navigate through the various settings and options to configure and manage their virtual machines efficiently.

Installation and Setup

Installing this desktop software is a straightforward process. Users can download the installation package from the Microsoft website or FileHorse and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Once installed, users can create new virtual machines and configure their settings according to their requirements.

How to Use

• Launch the app from the Start menu.
• Create a new virtual machine by clicking on the "New" button and following the wizard to set up the virtual machine settings.
• Install the desired operating system on the virtual machine.
• Customize the virtual machine settings, such as memory allocation, virtual hard disk size, and network configuration.
• Start the virtual machine and enjoy seamless virtualization on your Windows desktop.

FAQ

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

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

Can I run macOS on Windows Virtual PC?
No, Windows Virtual PC is designed to run Windows and certain Linux distributions. For running macOS on Windows, you would need to use alternative virtualization software such as VMware or VirtualBox.

Is Windows Virtual PC free?
The program is available as a free download for users of genuine Windows operating systems.

Can I run multiple virtual machines simultaneously?
Yes, it allows users to run multiple virtual machines simultaneously, provided their system meets the necessary hardware requirements.

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 (32-bit)