Blog by PQR

I previously wrote about Virtual PC, off course we all know that this is the solution for a single PC environment. So how about the Enterprise needs ? Can Virtual PC help you use that application that only runs on Windows XP but in a Enterprise environment ? Yes this is possible with Med-V from Microsoft. Basically this still is Virtual PC but with some extra’s like:

Deploy and provision

• Deploy IT-managed virtual XP environment to end users.
• Enable customization in heterogeneous desktop environments.
  • Automate first-time Virtual PC setup (i.e., initial network setup, computer name, domain join).
  • Adjust Virtual PC memory allocation based on available RAM on host.
• Application provisioning based on Microsoft Active Directory® users/groups.
  • Assign a virtual image and define which applications are available to the user.
• Redirect web requests that require Internet Explorer 6 to the virtual XP environment.

Control and Monitor

• Centrally define usage permissions, and Virtual PC settings.
• Centrally monitor endpoint clients.
• Provide helpdesk tools to diagnose and troubleshoot virtual PCs.

Read more about MED-V features and architecture in this white paper.

As I said before, the support for some USB devices is still not 100%, and the speed of the application can also be improved. It is still a very valuable asset if you are looking into upgrading to Windows 7.

You will need a MDOP agreement if you want to use Med-V

Arjan Beijer