How can I run a 64-bit Windows VM?

[sfeg]

Does Windows Ultimate's software for a complimentary virtual machine allow only a 32-bit WinXP VM?

If so, I should install a different program, such as Virtual Box, in order to run a 64-bit VM, correct? (I am going to need it for the Linux side, at least).

The drawback with 3rd-party software is that the Windows virtual machine will require a 2nd Win7 key separate from the base OS... is this correct?

On the bright side, Windows can be installed and run for 30 days without activation. Will I still be able to get my updates during the non-activated period?

If I image the VM, then re-install the image every few weeks (in order to keep my computer clean, of course), does this reset my 30 days back to day 1?

Thanks

 

[Kari]

Does Windows Ultimate's software for a complimentary virtual machine allow only a 32-bit WinXP VM?

Microsoft Virtual PC can only run 32-bit guests, so also the XP Mode virtual machine (guest) is only available as 32-bit. By the way, it's not just for Ultimate; you can download and install XP Mode on Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise.

If so, I should install a different program, such as Virtual Box, in order to run a 64-bit VM, correct? (I am going to need it for the Linux side, at least).

Yes. Anyway, as you mention you will need another virtualization application for although possible it is not practical to run Linux guests on Virtual PC. Integration between host and guest is essential, both VirtualBox and and VMWare offer integration components also for Linux guests whereas Virtual PC integration only works with Windows XP, Vista and 7 guests.

The drawback with 3rd-party software is that the Windows virtual machine will require a 2nd Win7 key separate from the base OS... is this correct?

No, for your host (Windows 7) you only need one licence. For XP guest you need an XP licence. Think a virtual machine guest as any individual computer; you need a licence for the operating system you install on it.

On the bright side, Windows can be installed and run for 30 days without activation. Will I still be able to get my updates during the non-activated period?

Yes.

If I image the VM, then re-install the image every few weeks (in order to keep my computer clean, of course), does this reset my 30 days back to day 1?

No.

Kari

 

[sfeg]

No, for your host (Windows 7) you only need one licence. For XP guest you need an XP licence. Think a virtual machine guest as any individual computer; you need a licence for the operating system you install on it.
Kari

So I only need 1 key even if I'm installing Windows twice on the computer: first as the base (dual boot with Linux) and then again as a Windows VM on the Linux side, as long as the two are not running at the same time at any given moment? Even if both Windows are activated?

I got a different answer from a Microsoft rep, but I'd like to know folks' actual experience. Thanks.

 

[Kari]

No, you misunderstood me.

You need a licence for each and every Windows installation you have. As I told you above, if you run a Windows 7 host and then an XP guest, you need one licence for Windows 7 and one for XP.

If you then install an additional Windows 7 virtual machine so you have one real physical computer (your host) running Windows 7 and you have two virtual machines (guests), one XP and one 7, you need a total of three licences: one for 7 host, one for XP guest and one for 7 guest.

If you run Linux on host and Windows XP on guest, you need licence for XP. If you then install an additional Windows 7 guest to your Linux host, you also need licence for that.

Each Windows installation, on a real physical computer or on a virtual machine needs a valid licence for that Windows version and edition.

Kari

 

[sfeg]

Ok, thanks. Repped. I think the confusion rose from whether my VM would be WinXP or Win7... to clarify, I wanted to install Win7 as the VM (as well as a base on dual boot).

 

[cluberti]

Note that a copy of Windows 7 Enterprise comes with virtual installation rights - you can install it as a host, but you can also install it as a guest virtual machine up to 4 times on the same machine under the same license if you meet certain criteria. Of course, that version isn't available to purchase or license at retail (it's only available to Microsoft customers with volume license agreements and software assurance), but it's just a nugget to throw out there.