Novell announced the availability of Novell ZENworks Application Virtualization, an easy-to-use tool that eliminates application compatibility problems on Windows desktops. This addition to the ZENworks product line creates virtual applications in a single, isolated file and allows them to be deployed and run securely, reducing the problems associated with deploying new operating system (OS) platforms like Vista, decreasing expensive service desk calls and increasing user productivity. With ZENworks Application Virtualization, the only application virtualization solution on the market that includes pre-configured templates for popular business software, customers can now virtualize and deploy applications in as little as 20 minutes.

Compatible with Windows Vista and Windows XP, ZENworks Application Virtualization reduces the cost and time required for software testing, packaging, deployment, configuration and contingency planning to ensure successful application and operating system upgrades. For example, with ZENworks Application Virtualization customers can continue to run Internet Explorer 6-based applications on Windows Vista, a configuration that previously required the application to be re-tooled to support Internet Explorer 7.

"Organizations are implementing application virtualization as a critical time and money saver that can decrease testing, packaging and support time," said Michael Rose, Research Analyst at IDC. "Further, the addition of application virtualization to Novell's systems and resource management offerings helps bridge the gap between incompatible operating platforms and the applications they need."

ZENworks Application Virtualization increases a customers' computing flexibility and allows IT organizations to maintain control of the desktop environment, by:

• Eliminating application conflicts through the deployment of a single, pre-configured, isolated .exe file that runs immediately anywhere.
• Enabling quick and easy deployment of virtual applications using any one of multiple distribution channels, including ZENworks Configuration Management, CD/DVD, thumbdrive or via the Web, without requiring additional servers or managed device components.
• Enabling compatibility with more than 70 certified software applications as well offering pre-configured templates to simplify the virtualization of today's most popular applications including Firefox, Internet Explorer, Adobe and Microsoft Office.
• Ensuring security continuity on locked-down desktops by allowing virtualized applications to run without requiring access to the file system or registry.

"End users just want their applications to work regardless of the operating system they use," said Joe Wagner, senior vice president and general manager of Novell Systems and Resource Management. "Application virtualization removes barriers to new OS deployments, increases IT efficiency and service as well as enhances security. With Novell ZENworks Application Virtualization, customers now have a tool that prevents application and operating system conflicts which allows for faster time to value. When combined with leading application management capabilities of ZENworks Configuration Management, organizations can quickly deliver previously incompatible applications to thousands of users in hours -- not weeks, months or never."