Using VHDMount with Virtual PC

So maybe you are using Virtual PC, and having read about VHDMount you are thinking:

"Gee, I would like to be able to use that tool - but I only use Virtual PC.  I know I could install Virtual Server on my computer (and it would work fine and not interfere with Virtual PC) but that seems like overkill.  Why didn't Microsoft include this with Virtual PC!  Why is life so hard!! Doesn't anyone care about the little guy anymore!!!"

Well - after you have calmed down - I will tell you not to worry.  There is no sinister plan here to force people to install Virtual Server - it is just that Virtual Server 2005 R2 SP1 is the first product to ship with this functionality.  Plus - you can easily install VHDMount all by itself.  What you need to do is:

  1. Download the Virtual Server 2005 R2 SP1 installation from https://www.microsoft.com/virtualserver (free download)
  2. Launch the setup program and select to install Virtual Server 2005 R2 SP1.
  3. Accept the EULA, enter your details, and then select Custom for your setup type.
  4. Now you can unselect every feature except VHD Mount.

Completing the installation will get you a copy of VHDMount without any other Virtual Server stuff.

Cheers,
Ben