How to Install a Backup Computer Image in Virtual PC

Backup discs can create new virtual machines.

Windows Virtual PC creates virtual machines for running other versions of the Windows operating system while simultaneously running the currently installed operating system. While it allows users to create completely new virtual machines, it also accepts backup images for recreating another backed up computer as a virtual machine. This allows users to run their computer in the state it was in when the backup was created or to rebuild the system on another machine without tampering with an existing installation.

Instructions

1. Create backup discs. Windows 7 and Vista include the System Recovery Disc feature that burns a usable disc. Do not use the Windows Backup and Restore feature, as this tool only backs up data and you will need a complete system backup to create a virtual machine. Some third-party software such as Norton Ghost or HP Recovery Manager can also create these discs.

2. Open Virtual PC from the Start menu. Click on "Create Virtual Machine" in the menu bar.

3. Follow the instructions on the Virtual Machine Wizard to specify the virtual machine's resources. Ensure you allocate enough hard drive space and memory for the backed up system to run properly. Check Microsoft's website for the system requirements of a specific Windows operating system. Click "Finish" to create the new virtual machine.

4. Insert the backup disc into the system's optical drive. If the backup uses multiple discs, use disc 1. If an Autoplay window appears, close it.

5. Select the virtual machine from the list and click "Open" to start the virtual system. Virtual PC will automatically locate the backup disc and begin the setup procedure.

6. Follow the instructions on the backup disc to install the new virtual machine's operating system. The process will vary depending on which software you used to create the disc. The backed up system will start when the installation is complete.

7. Close the system and restart it from the Virtual PC main window.

Tips & Warnings

• Windows Virtual PC is a component of most versions of Windows 7. If you run a previous version of Windows, Virtual PC 2007 is available as a free download from Microsoft's website (see Resources). This older version of the virtual machine software includes many of the features of the newer version and will also work with backup discs.

References

• Windows: What Are the System Recovery Options in Windows Vista?
• Windows What are the System Recovery Options in Windows 7?
• Microsoft Technet: Windows Virtual PC Evaluation Guide

Resources

• Windows: Windows Virtual PC 2007