Hard Disk Run IT on a Virtual

The Microsoft VHD format is the common virtualization file format that provides a uniform product support system, and provides more seamless manageability, security, reliability and cost-efficiency for customers.

Featured VHDs

Updated January 22, 2008

Using the power of virtualization, you can now quickly evaluate Microsoft and partner solutions through a series of pre-configured Virtual Hard Disks (VHDs). You can download the VHDs and evaluate them for free in your own environment without the need for dedicated servers or complex installations. Start now by selecting a lab from the VHD catalog below.

BizTalk Server 2006

Get hands-on experience of the capabilities of BizTalk Server, a business process management (BPM) server, and see how it can enable companies to automate and optimize business processes with powerful, familiar tools to design, develop, deploy, and manage.

Windows Server 2008 Beta 3

Experience the new features and functionality of Windows Server 2008, including built-in Web and virtualization technologies that enable you to increase the reliability and flexibility of your server infrastructure.

Exchange Server 2007 SP1

Reduce the growing cost and complexity of managing a corporate messaging system by providing more control for IT administrators, more value and expanded inbox access for users, and increased security and compliance for the organization as a whole.

Windows Vista Enterprise 30-Day Edition VHD
Road-test the new and improved features of the Windows Vista platform, and get a firsthand look at enhancements to management, usability, and security

Learn More About VHDs

VHD Product Overview
Learn about the VHD Test Drive Program, get an introduction to virtual machine technology, and read about key features and benefits of using VHDs in this overview.

Frequently Asked Questions about VHDs
Find general information about using VHDs, virtual machine technology, requirements, and more in the VHD FAQ.

Microsoft VHD Partners
Learn about Microsoft partners that have pre-configured VHDs available for you to test and evaluate today. If you are Microsoft partner, find out how you can take advantage of this program and distribute your applications in a VHD.

VHD Image Format Specifications
With the VHD format now available as a freely available specification, Microsoft is contributing to the continued expansion of the virtualization market by fostering interoperability among all commercial software solutions, including open source.