Application virtualization is a virtualization method that allows businesses to virtualize specific applications and use them remotely without the need to install the virtualized applications on their devices. The main difference between application virtualization and classic virtualization is that instead of virtualizing the whole OS stack, as in classic virtualization or server virtualization (CPU, RAM, network, and disks), application virtualization allows organizations to isolate and run multiple instances of the same application and present them to users.

Application virtualization is often confused with other types of virtualization, such as VDI, containers, or server virtualization (classic virtualization). While confusion is common, it is important to understand that different virtualization technologies operate on a different level. For example, application virtualization only virtualizes applications and their files, while the OS remains unchanged. In contrast, VDI is a complete desktop virtualization, meaning that all dependencies and files can be changed by the user.

For organizations that are struggling to keep the same version of the application that is used across many devices, application virtualization might be very beneficial.

How Does Application Virtualization Work?

Package – Store – Deliver

Application virtualization requires a packaged application with all its dependencies, registry, and other necessary components that need to be encapsulated to run in parallel. Once the application is packaged, a special virtualization tool is used (e.g. Microsoft App-V, VMware ThinApp, Citrix Virtual Apps, etc). This virtualization tool ensures that the application is isolated from the OS, can be used in parallel, and does not interact with other sessions.

A key component of application virtualization is application streaming, which allows applications to be delivered to end-user devices on-demand. With application streaming, only the portions of the application code that are immediately needed are delivered initially, with additional components streamed as required. This reduces initial launch times and optimizes network bandwidth usage, making it particularly valuable for large applications or environments with limited bandwidth.

Types of Application Virtualization

There are three types of application virtualization:

• Remote (server-based): this means that the application runs remotely on a centralized server and users connect to the software UI that is isolated from other sessions, avoiding any potential conflicts. The most common solutions on the market today are Microsoft RemoteApp, Citrix Virtual Apps, and VMware Horizon Apps.
• Local (client-based): unlike the above, the application runs locally on the client device. Software conflicts are solved by specialized tools like Microsoft App-V, VMware ThinApp, etc.
• Layered (hybrid): app package is attached as a virtual disk and blends into the VM’s OS. Users see newly attached applications after the next logon. This approach is used by VMware App Volumes and Citrix App Layering.

Benefits of Application Virtualization

Application virtualization comes with a couple of advantages that are especially beneficial at scale:

• Eliminates application conflicts by allowing multiple users to interact with the same application simultaneously.
• Centralizes software deployment and updates, allowing IT teams to efficiently update and manage software at scale.
• Ensures compatibility, allowing users to use any platform to interact with an application without restrictions and to support legacy software.
• Enhances security by reducing the attack surface and preventing most malware and ransomware attacks.
• Significantly reduces IT costs through centralized management, decreased hardware requirements, and reduced need for on-site technical support.
• Lowers administrative burden by simplifying application lifecycle management, enabling faster deployment, and reducing troubleshooting time for application conflicts.