One thing I just learned from the TS2 seminar is I can start testing virtualization immediately… and for free.

The things you’ll need are as follows:

1. Microsoft Hyper-V 2008 ISO at http://www.microsoft.com/servers/hyper-v-server/how-to-get.mspx

2. The Hyper-V Configuration Guide at http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=E1E111C9-FA69-4B4D-8963-1DD87804C04F

3. Windows Vista SP1 Management Console MMC available at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/952627

4. A CAL of whatever Microsoft Windows product you’re virtualizing

These four things will get you well on your way.  The key here is you don’t have to purchase a full server license to have hyper-v setup and running immediately.  I’m using my beefest test computer I have.  I was using it for Windows 7 Beta testing, but now it’s time to virtualize that and other machines in a fancy Virtual Test environment… Yay!!!