Application Virtualization and Modern Packaging- A Technical Comparison

Application Virtualization and Modern Packaging: A Technical Comparison

Greg Lambert
October 28, 2024
2 minutes

Application Virtualization and Modern Packaging: A Technical Comparison

The landscape of application delivery and packaging continues to evolve, with several key technologies competing to modernize software distribution in enterprise environments. Let’s examine four leading solutions: MSIX, Cloudpaging, FlexApp, and App Volumes.

MSIX – Microsoft’s Modern Package Format

Microsoft’s MSIX represents the evolution of traditional Windows installers, building upon the foundation of MSI, App-V, and ClickOnce technologies. Key technical advantages include:

  • Built-in container isolation providing enhanced security and reduced conflicts
  • Auto-updating capabilities through the Package Support Framework
  • Preservation of system integrity through clean uninstall processes
  • Native Windows 10/11 integration with the Microsoft Store infrastructure

However, MSIX faces challenges with legacy applications that require extensive modification or don’t comply with modern packaging requirements.

Cloudpaging – Stream-Based Virtualization

Numecent’s Cloudpaging takes a unique approach through its dynamic virtualization technology:

  • Predictive streaming algorithm that pre-fetches application components
  • Session-based isolation without permanent system modifications
  • Kernel-level driver integration for near-native performance
  • License control and usage analytics capabilities

The technology excels in delivering large applications but requires infrastructure investment and careful network capacity planning.

FlexApp – Layering Technology

Liquidware’s FlexApp implements application layering with several distinctive features:

  • Click-to-Layer technology enabling on-demand application access
  • Profile-based application delivery
  • Integration with multiple hypervisor platforms
  • Minimal base image impact

While powerful for VDI environments, FlexApp may require additional storage considerations for layer management.

App Volumes – VMware’s Solution

VMware’s approach with App Volumes offers:

  • Real-time application attachment
  • Simplified application lifecycle management
  • Deep integration with VMware Horizon
  • Support for both persistent and non-persistent environments

The technology works exceptionally well within VMware ecosystems but may be less optimal in heterogeneous environments.

Technical Implementation Considerations

Each solution presents distinct advantages for specific use cases:

1. Infrastructure Impact

  • MSIX: Minimal additional infrastructure required
  • Cloudpaging: Requires streaming servers and network optimization
  • FlexApp: Storage requirements for layer management
  • App Volumes: VMware infrastructure dependency

2. Application Compatibility

  • MSIX: Best for modern applications
  • Cloudpaging: High compatibility with legacy applications
  • FlexApp: Good compatibility with packaging requirements
  • App Volumes: Strong compatibility within VMware environments

3. Performance Metrics

  • MSIX: Native-like performance
  • Cloudpaging: Variable based on network conditions
  • FlexApp: Minimal performance impact
  • App Volumes: Optimized for VMware environments

4. Management Overhead

  • MSIX: Moderate packaging effort
  • Cloudpaging: Higher initial setup complexity
  • FlexApp: Moderate layer management
  • App Volumes: Streamlined within VMware environments

Readiness can help!

With our combined approach of algorithmic and automated runtime testing Saas offering, we can ensure that all of your applications are tested and ready for “Day One” of your migration and will keep testing to ensure that each update does not have an impact on your application portfolio.

You can find out more about our Windows 11 testing service here: https://applicationreadiness.com/wp-content/uploads/Application-Readiness-for-Windows-11.pdf

Greg Lambert

CEO, Product Evangelist
Greg Lambert is the CEO and product evangelist for Application Readiness Inc. Greg is a co-founder of ChangeBASE and has considerable experience with application packaging technology and its deployment.

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