14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack 2011 is now available for download bringing with it a few enhanced virtualization goodies.
Both Microsoft Application Virtualization (App-V) 4.6 Service Pack 1 (SP1) and Microsoft Enterprise Desktop Virtualization (MED-V) 2.0 have been packed into MDOP 2011, which went live on March 10th, 2010.
From what I talked with enterprise customers, they regard virtualization only as a last resort when it comes down to solving application compatibility problems, or at least that’s the impression they left me.
In Windows 7 upgrade scenarios where programs refuse to play nice with the new OS, IT professionals will first of all try and find a compatible version of the app, and update if possible.
If a newer, compatible version doesn’t exist, and it cannot be created, then they’ll turn to shimming as the next logical step, since many IT pros told me that introducing virtualization to solve app compatibility problems automatically adds complexity.
But in the eventuality that such solutions as those enumerated above fail, it’s good to know that they have something to fall back onto, namely Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack, specifically MDOP 2011.
App-V 4.6 SP1 brings to the table enhancements to sequencing, a process through which traditional applications are concerted to App-V virtual applications, revealed Dave Trupkin, Senior Product Manager for App-V and MED-V.
“In this release, we’ve redesigned the sequencing process to make it even easier for new users to get started quickly. We provide step-by-step guidance for common packaging tasks, like creating a new package, updating a package, or packaging add-ins or middleware,” Trupkin stated.
“We’ve also added diagnostics to help alert packagers to potential issues before they become problems. App-V 4.6 SP1 is our easiest to use release ever.”
MED-V 2.0 is designed to streamline the process of deploying and managing legacy virtual applications that were built for Windows XP and now need to run on Windows 7.
Essentially, MED-V 2.0 enables IT pros to integrate apps into Windows 7, even though they’re running in the XP compatibility workspaces. Something like Windows XP Mode, but not quite.
“MED-V expands on the capabilities in Windows XP Mode by adding enterprise features, such as the ability to use a custom Windows XP image, automating first time setup and controlling URL redirection for Internet Explorer,” Trupkin explained.
“With MED-V 2.0, there’s no dedicated infrastructure. MED-V workspaces are distributed and managed with existing systems, such as System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2 or higher.”
At this point in time, MDOP 2011 is available for download to MSDN and TechNet subscribers (I just checked.) In addition, volume customers can head over to the Microsoft Volume Licensing website and grab the release as well.