Using Norton Ghost to Copy VM Setup?

  • Thread starter Thread starter WWGD
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    virtual image
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using Norton Ghost to copy a virtual machine (VM) setup from a work environment to a home PC. Participants explore alternative methods for transferring the VM, questioning the complexities involved in moving software installations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires whether Norton Ghost can be used to copy a VM setup and expresses curiosity about why the VM cannot simply be saved as a file and uploaded.
  • Another participant argues that modern software is not merely a file, noting that applications require registry entries and registration processes that cannot be replicated by just copying files.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that imaging software may not be necessary, proposing that a VM can be exported to .OVA/.OVF formats or that the VM directory can be copied directly if the VM software supports it.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the methods for copying a VM. While some emphasize the limitations of simply copying files, others propose practical alternatives for transferring the VM setup. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions about the capabilities of different VM software and the specific requirements for transferring VMs that are not fully explored. The discussion does not clarify the exact software being used or the configurations involved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in virtual machine management, software transfer methods, and those seeking alternatives to Norton Ghost for copying VMs.

WWGD
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
Messages
7,801
Reaction score
13,105
Hi all,
There is a VM setup at work that I would like to copy into my home PC. Would Norton Ghost be able to do the job? Are there other ways ( A VPN is not an option, just in case)? I am just curious, since the VM is itself just software, why is it not possible to just save it as a file and upload it ?
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
WWGD said:
Hi all,
There is a VM setup at work that I would like to copy into my home PC. Would Norton Ghost be able to do the job? Are there other ways ( A VPN is not an option, just in case)? I am just curious, since the VM is itself just software, why is it not possible to just save it as a file and upload it ?
Modern software is never just a file. Applications, as part of their installation process, (1) put things in the registry and (2) have a registration process that requires a password (or "key"). Just copying the application's executable and ancillary files and dumping them onto a different computer, will do neither of those things. If what you are asking was possible, a great many people would never pay for any applications, they would just bootleg them.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: WWGD
phinds said:
Modern software is never just a file. Applications, as part of their installation process, (1) put things in the registry and (2) have a registration process that requires a password (or "key"). Just copying the application's executable and ancillary files and dumping them onto a different computer, will do neither of those things. If what you are asking was possible, a great many people would never pay for any applications, they would just bootleg them.
Thanks. You're pretty smart for a cute furry dog ;).
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: phinds
WWGD said:
Hi all,
There is a VM setup at work that I would like to copy into my home PC. Would Norton Ghost be able to do the job? Are there other ways ( A VPN is not an option, just in case)? I am just curious, since the VM is itself just software, why is it not possible to just save it as a file and upload it ?
You shouldn't need to use imaging software to simply copy a VM, should just be able to shut the VM off and export it to .OVA/.OVF (if using VMware). If you can't find a VM export option, just copy the VM directory (includes all the configuration data and virtual disks) to a USB drive and save to the destination computer running the same VM software.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: WWGD
WWGD said:
Thanks. You're pretty smart for a cute furry dog ;).

Is this a massive shaggy dog compliment or what?
 

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 73 ·
3
Replies
73
Views
6K