Microsoft Application Virtualization
Microsoft Application Virtualization is the name for an application streaming and application virtualization software created by Microsoft. The technology was originally developed and pioneered by Softricity, but Microsoft acquired it on July 17, 2006. App-V was Microsoft's first major entry to the application virtualization market. App-V's purpose is simple: the software allows applications to be streamed live to a client through a specialized virtual application server. This removes the need to locally install applications onto a mobile or computer device. Instead, the App-V software should be installed on the client's computer. App-V's streaming software is all they need to access the app. App-V implements security measures to ensure that the streamed application cannot interfere with the receiving computer's operating system. App-V is also designed to keep its applications separate from each other. This way, App-V can run several versions of the same app at the same time. Through this management system, App-V centralizes and controls deployed applications. It also supports administrative access control; administrators can restrict or otherwise define the application's use by individuals. The App-V software provides a way for a large number of receiving computers to access applications that are centralized on one computer. This is ideal for office spaces, classrooms, and other areas where collaborative work is important. Microsoft App-V software does require a license to use. A license can either be acquired by licensing the MDOP pack (Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack) to use on the client's operating system, through a specific individualized license, or through a cloud-based licensing system. MDOP is a technology suite available by subscription.
- Administrator permissions and restrictions, including restriction of application use and individual definition of application use
- The ability to stream applications to synced computers
- Storage of application data
- A set of servers that only host App-V
- Unique System Center integration
- Stand-alone mode to deliver applications by means other than streaming
- Applications can run on systems that would not ordinarily support a local installment
- Applications link back to one central computer with stored data
- Administrators have the ability to restrict or define access
- Unique software architecture gives an encompassing streaming experience
- Even though Microsoft Office plugins are meant to be compatible, the syncing of them may cause technical problems
- App-V can't be sequenced on machines that install device drivers
- Sequenced applications sometimes fail to update to their newer versions
- Licensing policies are somewhat restrictive
- Not all available services can be virtualized
Alternatives to Microsoft Application Virtualization
Sandboxie
Cameyo
Cuckoo Sandbox
Deep Freeze
COMODO Internet Security
Shadow Defender
VMware ThinApp
BufferZone
Hopedot VOS
