What is Application Virtualization?

Application virtualization is a process for changing the way that software runs on a computer’s operating system. With application virtualization tools, software makers can create programs that will run on a wider range of operating systems, or in more diverse conditions. Making applications “virtual” helps to provide more compatibility for a piece of software in complex and diverse hardware setups.

In traditional software design, a software program is executed by the operating system directly. With application virtualization, the process is different. The “run-time” process involves indirect program execution. This means that some remote technology or extra component is helping the computer to “read” and “run” the program.

Different kinds of application virtualization include application streaming and desktop virtualization. In desktop virtualization, there may be “helper” elements installed to assist in the execution of software. In application streaming, help can be delivered through networks, over an Internet connection.

Application virtualization is similar to what’s called “software as a service.” Many software as a service or SaaS setups include applications training or similar methods. The overall benefit of SaaS is to provide software over the Web as opposed to selling it “out of the box.” In traditional “out of the box” setups, the user has to install and register a software product. With SaaS and application virtualization technologies, none of this is required.

In setups involving SaaS and application virtualization, companies can sign up as users, and get software delivered directly to their desktop. Software can be sold as a temporary or permanent service. This helps busy managers to control more of their overall IT “architecture.” It also helps vendors to serve clients with more versatility.

Many companies offering application virtualization as part of a SaaS package or other software delivery process also offer virtualization support. Technicians help customers to figure out how the virtual application process works. Clients can consult company representatives for troubleshooting, or to get optimal performance for their virtualized software products.

To many business leaders, application virtualizing tools and similar methods represent a huge leap forward in the way that software is delivered to customers. These innovative kinds of vendor processes make many software transactions more efficient. Providing more virtual solutions cuts down on time and effort for some customers, while also cutting the need for some kinds of physical materials such as packaging. Lots of forward-thinking software companies are looking to these kinds of tools when planning for future improvements in their products and services.