Windows Guides’ Rating | Compatible with | System |
5 out of 5 |
Many of you out there, reading this, use virtualization software (VM-Ware, Virtual PC, Virtual-Box etc.) now and then or on a regular basis (Proof Here). Most users emulate a different Windows version on their computer for testing purposes, or to be able to run old unsupported programs (like the Windows XP Feature in Windows 7). Some also use a virtual system to run Windows programs on their MAC.
Usually, setting up a Virtual Server involves setting up a clean installation of Windows. That of course mean that you need to install every bit of software you plan to use onto that new Virtual Playground. But No More.
Now you can Clone your already working Windows (with all software, documents and settings) into a working Virtual Server. Which you then can copy onto a DVD or Flash-Drive to run everywhere. Using any Virtualization Software you prefer, for free.
Paragon Go Virtual
First off, Paragon Go Virtual is a commercial program, but is made available free for personal use. During the course of virtualizing your Windows, you will be asked to register your copy to retrieve a serial number. This is just a formality and as long as you don’t violate the “personal usage”-clause you’re good to go.
The Scenarios
- Continue using your old PC’s applications – enjoy your favorite applications in a virtual environment on your new computer
- Safely test new software
- Put your PC in your pocket, use it anywhere and anytime
- Combining Windows and Mac. Run Your own Windows Computer safely on your MAC OS X environment.
It’s so simple, my grandma (aged 90) could do it
No matter if the computer you love to use, run Windows 2000(!), XP, Vista or 7, you can clone it. Download, install, run it, follow the Wizard, and that is basically it.
- After you have downloaded and installed the software, run it.
- Click the P2V Copy item of the Wizards menu
- Select objects you want to virtualize (select any combination of disks and partitions, files and folders)
- If you run a multiple boot environment with different Windows Installations you need to tell which OS to convert (guest OS)
- We also need to decide which format to use (which VM software you will use to run it)
- The next step is to set the system variables like VM-Software version, Amount of Memory needed, How many CPUs (if more than one available) etc. If unsure, go for the default suggestions, always.
- Paragon Go Virtual will detect which Drive formating suits your OS (NTFS, FAT, ExFat), you are of course able to change that, but I’d put trust in Paragon Go Virtual on this one. You may also allocate more or less space available for the Virtualization environment if you so choose.
- Then choose a name and location for your cloned OS.
Once the job is done, all you need to do is to copy your VHD-file (usually the format chosen by the system) onto a disk or Flash Drive, download the proper Virtualization Software and run it.
Want to know more?
You will find everything you need to know, from different OS dependent manuals to download links at the Paragon Website. Or use the download link below.
Good Luck!
Download Page |
About Thomas
Computer geek from the age of 7, which amounts to 30 years of computer experience. From the early days (when every computer company had their own OS) of DOS, Windows 1.0 through Seven...
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