VM Express FAQ

What is VM Express?
VM Express is an efficient VM distribution solution designed to save time and money for people who distribute VMs and simultaneously accelerate and simplify deployment for users.
Who should use VM Express?
Anyone that distributes Windows VMs can use VM Express. VM Express is particularly useful if you have a very large quantity of VMs or if you frequently update any quantity of VMs.
How does it work?
VM Express uses a patent-pending imaging methodology built around industry standard formats to consolidate virtual disk files and to enable master and delta images. Optimized master images can be shipped on a DVD. Additional images can be distributed over the web via small delta images. For more details on how VM Express works please refer to the VM Express Solution Brief.
How much does it cost?
Cost is dependent upon the quantity of users and the edition of VM Express you use. VM Express Basic has a one-time licensing fee and VM Express Professional has a low monthly fee. For more information on licensing please see the How to Buy page.
How much storage space can I really save using VM Express?
Storage reduction is dependent upon the quantity of content and the similarity of content. VM Express uses single instance storage technology to reduce images. Storage reduction among customers has ranged from 40% to 80%.
How large are the delta images?
Delta images depend upon the architecture of the VMs and common content among VMs. A well planned program can have delta images as small as a few MB.
I do one big distribution a year. What edition of VM Express makes the most sense for me?
It is generally most economical to use VM Express Basic for a single distribution. But the efficiencies in VM Express really change the VM distribution paradigm. You might find that you can run the program cost effectively and provide more relevant, fresher content to your users faster and cheaper by releasing content over the web throughout the year.
I have a large volume of content but I only ship to a small group of people. Is VM Express a good option for me?
You can work with the consultants at Prowess to determine whether or not VM Express is economical. Prowess can undertake a no-risk investigation to determine whether VM Express will deliver the value you expect. Prowess can also help perform an inexpensive proof-of-concept to see how the solution is received by your users, your colleagues, and your management.