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Best User Virtualization Software 2025

What is User Virtualization Software?User virtualization software tools enable users to run multiple operating systems on a single desktop computer or machine. It creates desktop virtualization where a desktop environment is a virtual machine stored on a remote server that can be managed independently. They are capable of hosting unique operating systems through an integrated hosting control panel. The main concept behind user virtualization lies in being able to access applications and ...

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Learn More about User Virtualization Software

What is User Virtualization Software?

User virtualization software tools enable users to run multiple operating systems on a single desktop computer or machine. It creates desktop virtualization where a desktop environment is a virtual machine stored on a remote server that can be managed independently. They are capable of hosting unique operating systems through an integrated hosting control panel. The main concept behind user virtualization lies in being able to access applications and operating systems you otherwise could not depending on your device.

Two types of user virtualization software include persistent and non-persistent virtualized desktop infrastructure. Persistent VDI means the virtual image on the user’s desktop can be personalized with the addition of data, shortcuts, and files. With non-persistent VDI, the computer reverts to its original state upon the user logging out. Non-persistent VDI is much easier to manage, requires less storage, and is easier to update.

User virtualization software is ideal for IT employees and developers who require multiple operating systems for their work and projects within a single environment. These products have evolved to the point where they can capture everything a user does on a non-persistent desktop image allowing the user to log back into a refreshed image and see everything just as they had left it. They have become a useful tool in computing and IT and will only grow in popularity and use and we become more dependent on technology and virtual products.

User Virtualization Features & Capabilities

  • Persistent personas in non-persistent virtual desktop environments

  • Policy and profile updates based on changes in the environment

  • Rights management

  • Integration with Microsoft Active Directory

  • Allow users of non-persistent desktops to install applications without affecting the base machine image

  • Ability to connect and disconnect network printers

  • Ability to lock down desktop limiting access to storage, application installs, etc.

User Virtualization Comparison

Type of virtualization. There are five different types of virtualization products to keep in mind when deciding on the best fit. They include:

  • Desktop virtualization: host server can run virtual machines using a hypervisor.

  • Application virtualization: the application is installed on a central server and can be virtually operated on multiple systems.

  • Server virtualization: dividing the resources of a single server onto multiple virtual servers.

  • Network virtualization: Assists in the management of the computer network as a single administrative entity.

  • Storage virtualization: manages physical storage of multiple network devices in a single device.


Ease of Use and Support. Most virtualization software users will be using these products for work purposes rather than entertainment. This means less time to get over a steep learning curve in order to spend more time on the business. Similarly, you will want to make sure you have a product that offers the support needed when issues arise.

Pricing Information

Many of the user virtualization software products, such as Microsoft Hyper-V and Red Hat Virtualization, offer free versions of their product. Prices for paid subscriptions vary depending on the capabilities of the product. They vary from $50 a year to $3000 a year. It is best to contact the vendor directly for customized pricing.
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User Virtualization FAQs

What does user virtualization software do?

User virtualization software tools allow users to run different operating systems on their own devices that wouldn’t normally support those systems, creating multiple virtual computer systems. They are helpful for IT employees, developers, and software testers needing to run certain systems on their PC or machine. User virtualization software may also be referred to as hypervisors.

What are the benefits of using user virtualization software?

Workplace productivity and convenience are greatly increased when using virtualization software. Users are able to access the installed operating system on a centralized machine. Having multiple operating systems in one location also provides convenience for users. These products also have the ability to form a snapshot and restore your system, providing the users with a sense of security.

How much does user virtualization software cost?

Many of the user virtualization software products, such as Microsoft Hyper-V and Red Hat Virtualization, offer free versions of their product. Prices for paid subscriptions vary depending on the capabilities of the product. They vary from $50 a year to $3000 a year. It is best to contact the vendor directly for customized pricing.