Xenocode News

Xenocode removes barriers to Silverlight distribution

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:41:41 GMT

SEATTLE, WA – April 9, 2009 – Xenocode, a leader in application virtualization and delivery technology, today announced support for Microsoft’s Silverlight platform and availability of the online Xenocode Silverlight Sandbox. Xenocode allows developers to distribute Silverlight-based applications without the need for installation of the Silverlight runtime or administrative privileges. The Xenocode Silverlight Sandbox lets users run popular Silverlight applications, including the Microsoft Silverlight Gallery and WorldWide Telescope, directly from the web without installation.

The Xenocode Silverlight Sandbox is available at http://www.xenocode.com/silverlight.

According to news reports, Major League Baseball recently abandoned Silverlight in part due to the need for users to have administrative rights to install the Silverlight player. Work computing environments are typically “locked down”, preventing installation of Silverlight and causing widespread frustration among MLB.com subscribers. Xenocode’s unique virtualization technology eliminates the need for administrative rights and software installations.

“We are excited to bring comprehensive support for Silverlight technologies to our developer and application delivery products”, said Kenji Obata, Code Systems founder and chief executive officer. “Xenocode gives Silverlight developers the ability to deliver applications powered by this next-generation technology to the widest possible audience.”

Xenocode supports both Silverlight 2 and the current beta version of Silverlight 3.

Availability

The online Xenocode Silverlight Sandbox is available immediately, free of charge at http://www.xenocode.com/silverlight.

Applications featured in the Silverlight Sandbox were built using Xenocode Virtual Application Studio and deployed using Xenocode Web Delivery. Xenocode products are available via the web and through authorized Xenocode partners.

For more information on Xenocode products or to download free product evaluations, please visit http://www.xenocode.com.

Xenocode Brings the World’s Software to the Web

Xenocode is a powerful application virtualization and streaming technology that allows software to run instantly from the web, without installation or hassles. Xenocode takes only minutes to deploy and works with existing applications, web sites, server infrastructure, and CDN providers.

Unlike traditional hardware virtualization and remote presentation technologies, applications deployed with Xenocode have virtually the same performance as native applications. Virtualized applications reside in isolated “sandboxes”, allowing software to run side-by-side without conflicts or modifications to the host device. Xenocode requires no setup, configuration, clients, or device drivers and runs legacy software seamlessly on Windows Vista and locked-down desktops.

Xenocode also supports delivery of applications to enterprise desktops via Active Directory, LANDesk Management Suite, and BMC Configuration Management. Xenocode technology has been licensed by Novell and is available as part of Novell ZENworks Application Virtualization.

About Microsoft Silverlight

Microsoft Silverlight is a cross-browser, cross-platform, and cross-device plug-in for delivering the next generation of .NET based media experiences and rich interactive applications for the web. By using Silverlight's support for .NET, High Definition video, cost-effective advanced streaming, and unparalleled high-resolution interactivity, businesses can reach out to new markets across the web, desktop, and devices.

About Code Systems

Code Systems is a leading provider of application virtualization and delivery systems, including its flagship Xenocode virtualization engine. Xenocode allows software developers and system administrators to deploy applications in lightweight virtual machines that run instantly via the web, Active Directory, portable storage devices, or existing desktop management infrastructure.

Code Systems products are trusted by leading consulting, financial, government, military, and technology companies, and tens of thousands of independent software developers. Code Systems is based in Seattle, Washington.

# # #

Xenocode is a registered trademark of Code Systems Corporation. Other products mentioned may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Virtual Application Studio 2009 update 7.0.162 released

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:48:10 GMT

This update applies to both Virtual Application Studio and Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition:

New SQL Express 2005 Runtime package
Reduced virtual runtime memory consumption (when compressed output option disabled)
Several new runtime options in the UI and other UI improvements
Added support for asynchronous file reads on virtual files marked as read-only
Fixed turning 'Trim .NET runtime' feature off regression in 7.0.119 build
Fixed multiple issues with Publish to USB feature
Added support for @SPECIALTOKEN@ expansion in registry key and value names
Improved error messages
Fixed intermittent hang observed in some startup scenarios

Follow Xenocode on Twitter

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:59:48 GMT

Xenocode is now available on Twitter! Follow us @xenocode.

Xenocode online Browser Sandbox lets users run Internet Explorer 8 without installation

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:40:25 GMT

WebApp technology allows Internet Explorer 8, 7, 6, Firefox, Safari, Opera, and Chrome to run simultaneously on any version of Windows, directly from the web

SEATTLE, WA – February 23, 2009 – Xenocode, a leader in application virtualization and delivery technology, today announced the immediate availability of the online Xenocode Browser Sandbox. The Browser Sandbox web site allows all popular Windows browsers to be run simultaneously, directly from the web. Web designers, system administrators, and other users can now evaluate Internet Explorer 8, 7, and 6, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera, and Google Chrome directly from the web in a risk-free manner. Unlike traditional software applications, Xenocode WebApps do not require any software to be installed and allow multiple application versions to run side-by-side on any version of Windows.

The Xenocode Browser Sandbox is available at http://www.xenocode.com/browsers.

“The Browser Sandbox is a great resource for users and organizations interested in testing Internet Explorer 8 or other browsers, without any of the problems or hassles associated with installing a new browser on their desktop”, said Kenji Obata, Code Systems founder and chief executive officer. “This site demonstrates how Xenocode virtualization technologies can be applied to dramatically reduce the time, costs, and risks associated with the rollout of any Windows desktop application.”

Availability

The Browser Sandbox is available free of charge on the web at http://www.xenocode.com/browsers.

Browsers featured in the Browser Sandbox were built using Xenocode Virtual Application Studio and deployed using Xenocode WebApp. Xenocode products are available via the web and through authorized Xenocode partners.

For more information on Xenocode licensing or to download free product evaluations, please visit http://www.xenocode.com.

Xenocode Application Virtualization Frees Applications from the Operating System

Xenocode is a powerful virtualization technology that separates applications from the underlying operating system. Unlike traditional hardware virtualization solutions that duplicate an entire host operating system, Xenocode's lightweight application virtualization technology emulates only core operating system features required for application execution. Xenocode requires no setup, configuration, clients, or device drivers, insulates applications against conflicts, and runs existing applications seamlessly on Windows Vista and locked-down desktops.

Xenocode virtual applications can be deployed on the web, intranets, portable storage devices, and existing desktop management infrastructure, including Active Directory, Microsoft SMS, LANDesk Management Suite, and BMC Configuration Management. Xenocode technology has been licensed by Novell and is available as part of Novell ZENworks Application Virtualization.

The Xenocode Virtual Application Studio authoring environment allows software developers and systems administrators to easily convert existing applications into virtual machine packages. The Xenocode WebApp service allows Xenocode applications to be run directly from the web via a simple control that embeds directly into web sites, blogs, and other online content.

Related Xenocode WebApps

Products related to this announcement can be embedded into web pages using the Xenocode Web control. To embed virtual applications, use the following HTML code:

· Microsoft Internet Explorer 8
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='IE8'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Microsoft Internet Explorer 7
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='IE7'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Microsoft Internet Explorer 6
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='IE6'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Mozilla Firefox
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Firefox'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Apple Safari
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Safari'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Opera
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Opera'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Google Chrome
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Chrome'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

About Code Systems

Code Systems develops the next-generation Xenocode virtualization engine and related application delivery products. Xenocode allows system administrators and software developers to deploy applications in lightweight, pre-configured virtual machines that run instantly on any Windows desktop via the web, Active Directory, portable storage devices, or existing desktop management infrastructure.

Code Systems was founded in 2002 and consists of a team of veteran Microsoft engineers and academic researchers. Today, its customers include thousands of industry-leading consulting, financial, government, military, and technology companies, and tens of thousands of independent information technology professionals. Code Systems is based in Seattle, Washington.

# # #

Xenocode is a registered trademark of Code Systems Corporation in the United States. Xenocode WebApp and PortableApp are trademarks of Code Systems. Other products mentioned may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Virtual Strategy Magazine podcast features Virtual Application Studio 2009

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 22:28:03 GMT

To listen to the podcast, visit http://www.virtual-strategy.com/VSM-Podcasts/Xenocode-Launches-New-Edition-of-VAS.html.

Xenocode evaluation products made available as web applications

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Evaluation products can now be run from the web without need for installation; bloggers and writers can embed Xenocode products within web pages alongside relevant content

SEATTLE, WA – February 17, 2009 – Xenocode, the leader in application virtualization and delivery technology, today introduced web-based demonstration versions of its industry-leading application virtualization and developer tools products. The new program, powered by Xenocode WebApp technology, allows users to run evaluation versions of popular Xenocode products directly from the web, with no installation. In addition, bloggers and other web publishers are now able to embed Xenocode products within their own web sites, enhancing the value of their content with relevant product demonstrations.

Xenocode WebApps can be embedded into web sites and blogs by inserting a single line of HTML script into the appropriate page. Available products include Xenocode Virtual Application Studio, Xenocode Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition, and Xenocode Postbuild for .NET. To view the HTML code to embed a WebApp, visit the Xenocode home page at http://www.xenocode.com, select the appropriate product, and click the Embed button.

“These new web-based versions of our products allow users to easily experience the benefits of Xenocode products – without the hassle of installation or downloads,” said Kenji Obata, Code Systems founder and chief executive officer. “The ability for publishers to post our applications directly within relevant articles and web sites offers an exciting new service to their readers as well as a potent demonstration of Xenocode technology.”

“Traditional marketing no longer works,” said Dan Kusnetzky, Partner at Kusnetzky Group LLC, an industry research firm, and author of ZDnet's Virtually Speaking column. “People are tuning out banner ads, print ads and are increasingly difficult to reach. Xenocode's WebApp technology will serve to make internet-based marketing interesting and fresh. This technology will make it possible to introduce people to new applications without forcing them to purchase it. When they're satisfied that the software will fit their requirements, it will be much easier present the decision as being simple and risk free.”

Availability

Xenocode evaluation web applications are available immediately, free of charge on the Xenocode web site at http://www.xenocode.com.

Xenocode products are available for purchase via the web and through authorized Xenocode partners. For more information on Xenocode licensing or to download free product evaluations, please visit http://www.xenocode.com.

Xenocode Application Virtualization Frees Applications from the Operating System

Xenocode is a powerful virtualization technology that separates applications from the underlying operating system. Unlike traditional hardware virtualization solutions that duplicate an entire host operating system, Xenocode's lightweight application virtualization technology emulates only core operating system features required for application execution. Xenocode applications require no setup, configuration, clients, or device drivers, are insulated from application and component conflicts, and run seamlessly on locked-down desktops.

Xenocode-virtualized applications can be deployed over the Internet, intranets, USB devices, and existing desktop management infrastructure, including Active Directory, Microsoft SMS, Novell ZENworks, LANDesk Management Suite, and BMC Configuration Management.

The Xenocode Virtual Application Studio authoring environment allows software developers and systems administrators to easily convert existing Windows-based applications into virtualized applications ready for instant deployment using Xenocode.

Related Xenocode WebApps

Products related to this announcement are available on the web as Xenocode WebApps. To embed these WebApps in a web page or blog, use the following HTML code:

· Virtual Application Studio:
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Studio'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition:
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='StudioIsv'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

· Xenocode Postbuild
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Postbuild'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

About Code Systems

Code Systems develops the Xenocode line of application virtualization and delivery products. Xenocode allows system administrators and software developers to deploy applications in lightweight, pre-configured virtual machines that run instantly on any Windows desktop via the web, Active Directory, USB drives, or existing desktop management infrastructure.

# # #

Xenocode is a registered trademark of Code Systems Corporation in the United States. Other products mentioned may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Xenocode releases major update of Virtual Application Studio

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:31:53 GMT

Active Directory Deployment, Advanced Sandbox Management, MSI Import Included in 2009 Update

SEATTLE, WA – February 2, 2009 – Xenocode, the leader in application virtualization technology, today announced the immediate availability of the 2009 edition of Xenocode Virtual Application Studio. The Virtual Application Studio authoring environment allows systems administrators and software developers to easily virtualize existing Windows-based applications for instant deployment using Xenocode. Xenocode Virtual Application Studio 2009 is available for download at www.xenocode.com.

Xenocode is an advanced application virtualization and delivery technology that completely eliminates software installation and insulates applications against conflicts and compatibility errors. The Xenocode system allows applications to be deployed instantly over the Internet, intranets, USB drives, and existing desktop management infrastructure such as Active Directory.

Virtual Application Studio 2009 includes dozens of feature enhancements and engine upgrades, including:

· Active Directory deployment and Windows shell integration: Easily deploy virtual applications to Active Directory user groups. A fully scriptable shell integration tool allows virtual application shortcuts and file associations to be registered on user desktops.

· Enhanced sandbox management: Dynamic management of virtual “bubbles” allows fine-grained control over application linking and communication. Sandbox reset allows changes to application settings to be instantly reverted.

· One-click import of MSI setups, ThinApp configurations, and Novell AXT packages: Existing MSI setup packages and other configuration formats can be virtualized with a single click, eliminating the need for time-consuming recapture.

· Dozens of new application templates: Virtual Application Studio’s unique application template wizard allows one-click virtualization of many popular applications, including the latest versions of Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, Mozilla Firefox, and Internet Explorer.

“This major update to Virtual Application Studio delivers powerful new application delivery and management capabilities to systems administrators,” said Kenji Obata, Code Systems founder and chief executive officer. “Xenocode virtualization provides an easy, affordable method for IT professionals to reduce application support and maintenance costs while improving their users’ desktop experience and productivity.”

Virtual Application Studio 2009 also incorporates numerous compatibility, reliability, and performance improvements. A detailed description of all updates and patches in the 2009 update is available on the Xenocode web site.

Xenocode Application Virtualization Frees Applications from the Operating System

Xenocode is a powerful virtualization technology that separates applications from the underlying operating system. Unlike traditional hardware virtualization solutions that duplicate an entire host operating system, Xenocode's lightweight application virtualization technology emulates only core operating system features required for application execution. “Xenocoded” applications require no setup, configuration, clients, or device drivers, are insulated from application and component conflicts, and run seamlessly on Windows Vista and locked-down desktops.

Xenocode-virtualized applications can be deployed over the Internet, intranets, USB devices, and existing desktop management infrastructure, including Active Directory, Microsoft SMS, LANDesk Management Suite, and BMC Configuration Management. Xenocode technology has been licensed by Novell and is available as part of Novell ZENworks Application Virtualization.

Availability

Xenocode Virtual Application Studio 2009 is available immediately via the web and through authorized Xenocode partners. For more information on Xenocode licensing or to download a free evaluation version, please visit www.xenocode.com.

Web Demos

Products related to this announcement can be embedded into web pages using the Xenocode Web control. To embed virtual applications, use the following HTML code:

· Virtual Application Studio:
<script type="text/javascript">Xenocode_AppName='Studio'</script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://start.xenocode.com/scripts/start.js"></script>

About Code Systems

Code Systems develops the next-generation Xenocode virtualization engine and related application delivery products. The Xenocode system allows systems administrators and software developers to deploy applications in lightweight, pre-configured virtual machine packages that run instantly on any Windows desktop via the Internet, intranets, USB drives, or existing desktop management infrastructure.

# # #

Xenocode is a registered trademark of Code Systems Corporation in the United States. Other products mentioned may be trademarks of their respective corporations.

Update 6.1.457 available for all 2008 products

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 22:58:35 GMT

Fixed Postbuild output to MSI issue with WIX-generated MSIs
.NET 3.5 package upgraded to SP1
Fixed issue with SxS manifest virtualization when assembly has policy with specific upgrade version
Fixed extra space at end of virtual command line (caused problems for certain apps)
Product license certificate installed under HKLM if possible (assists XBuild/XStudio scenarios running as non-user accounts)
Fix for read-only-mode virtualization affecting correct behavior of GetFolderPath API
Fixed Postbuild obfuscation preset bug involving particular generics interface and implementing class
Fixed bug virtualizing a registry string containing more than one path

Virtual Desktop Beta now available!

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:45:51 GMT

Xenocode is pleased to announce availability of the first beta release of Xenocode Virtual Desktop.

Xenocode Virtual Desktop is a new addition to the Xenocode virtualization family that allows systems administrators to easily deploy and manage Xenocode-based virtual applications and components.

Key Benefits

Reduce IT management costs and complexity: Completely automate application deployment and configuration. Applications arrive in seconds, completely pre-configured and ready to use.
Minimize upgrade risks: Side-by-side deployment of multiple application versions eliminates risks associated with application upgrades. Rollback failed deployments with a single click.
Increase security: Deploy all of your enterprise applications on secure, locked-down desktops.
Enforce organizational policy and licensing: Apply enterprise-wide policy, including browser settings and office suite templates, and restrict application access to authorized users.
Enable a mobile workforce: Deploy applications on disconnected laptops and USB flash drives.

Easy to Deploy

Xenocode Virtual Desktop works seamlessly with your existing management infrastructure:

No specialized servers required: Xenocode Virtual Desktop works with standard Windows file shares. No specialized database or streaming servers are required.
Works with Active Directory, Novell ZENworks, and LANDesk Management Suite: Xenocode Virtual Desktop easily integrates with existing desktop management infrastructure.
Easy-to-use desktop management: Optional Virtual Desktop Service allows computing infrastructure to be managed in environments without existing desktop management systems.
No additional Windows licenses required: Xenocode's unique lightweight virtualization technology allows virtual virtual desktops to be deployed on a single base operating system.
Flexible, scriptable infrastructure: Virtual desktop, application, and component management is fully scriptable, allowing integration with custom third-party or in-house management systems.

Virtualized applications are also easy to un-deploy — applications and components can be completely removed from desktops in seconds with a single command.

For more information and access to the free download, please visit www.xenocode.com/Products/Virtual-Desktop.

Enjoy!

- The Xenocode Team

Postbuild 2008 update 6.1.367 now available

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 22:17:39 GMT

Improved diagnostics reporting

Added new /d diagnostic switch to xbuild command line

Fixed handle leak when using virtualization feature, causing app.exe to be locked during execution

Xenocode Introduces Application Virtualization Products for Software Developers

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:46:08 GMT

Xenocode Technology Provides Instant, Error-Free Delivery of Applications; Eliminates Need for Installation, MSI Packages

SEATTLE, WA — October 2, 2008 — Xenocode, the leader in application virtualization technology, today introduced the industry’s first application virtualization products designed for software developers and publishers. Xenocode Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition allows developers to package their Windows, .NET and Java-based applications into self-contained virtual executables that run instantly on end-user desktops – without installation, setup, dependencies or conflicts. Xenocode Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition is available immediately at www.xenocode.com/Products/StudioIsv.

Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition allows developers to package applications for delivery by capturing a “snapshot” of the application in a ready-to-run state. Xenocode then builds a lightweight, self-contained virtual executable that runs instantly on any Windows desktop, regardless of operating system version or privilege restrictions. Xenocode’s unique, high-performance virtualization technology adds negligible space and performance overhead and, unlike traditional hardware virtualization, does not require a copy of any host operating system to be included in the deliverable. Virtual applications can be run instantly off the Web, file shares, and CDs, saved into legacy MSI packages, or deployed on portable USB devices.

"Application virtualization will reshape the way software publishers deliver products to their customers. Unlike legacy deployment technologies such as MSI, Xenocode technology provides end-users with an instant, reliable experience while dramatically reducing development, test, and support costs,” noted Kenji Obata, Xenocode founder and CEO. "With Xenocode Virtual Application Studio ISV Edition, software publishers and their customers will never again experience a failed setup or wait hours for applications to install.”

Xenocode Application Virtualization: Frees Applications from the Underlying OS
Application virtualization is a sophisticated technology that separates applications from the underlying operating systems on which they execute. Unlike traditional hardware virtualization solutions that require an entire copy of the host operating system, Xenocode's lightweight application virtualization technology emulates core operating system features required for application execution. “Xenocoded” applications require no setup, configuration, clients, or device drivers, are isolated from external DLL and dependency conflicts, and run properly on Windows Vista and locked-down desktops. Xenocode-virtualized applications can be easily deployed on USB devices, corporate intranets, the Internet, or existing desktop management infrastructure software such as Novell ZENworks, Microsoft SMS, LANDesk Management Suite, and BMC Configuration Management.

The Xenocode Virtual Application Studio authoring environment allows software developers and IT professionals to easily convert their existing Windows, .NET, and Java-based applications into virtualized applications ready for instant deployment.

Pricing and Availability

Xenocode Virtual Application Studio 2008 ISV Edition is available today in Startup, SMB, and Enterprise license packs. The Startup license, available to organizations with up to five developers, is available for purchase on the Web for $1,599. SMB and Enterprise site licenses are available for larger organizations. For more information or to download a free evaluation version, please visit www.xenocode.com.

About Xenocode

Xenocode develops next-generation virtualization technologies that make applications available instantly and reliably, anywhere. The Xenocode Virtual Application Studio authoring environment and Xenocode Virtual Operating System allow IT professionals and software developers to deploy applications in lightweight, pre-configured virtual executables that run instantly on any Windows desktop via intranets, the Internet, USB keys, or existing desktop management infrastructure. Xenocode was founded in 2002 and consists of a team of veteran Microsoft engineers and academic researchers. Today, its customers include thousands of industry-leading consulting, financial, government, military, and technology companies, and tens of thousands of independent IT professionals. Xenocode is based in Seattle, Washington.

# # #

Xenocode is a registered trademark of Code Systems Corporation in the United States. Other products mentioned may be trademarks of their respective corporations.

Virtual Application Studio 2008 SP1 update 6.1.339 released

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:53:26 GMT

Changed to new license-certificate based licensing

Added SpawnVm exceptions to settings pane

Added “Read-only” mode to settings pane

Fixed bug causing manually added services to fail
Fixed DEP issue causing some applications to crash with DEP turned on
Added new application templates
Improved startup-file detection
Fix Icon displayed in settings pane
Improved startup perf for certain configs
Simplified snapshot accross reboot scenario
Now snapping HKU\.Default
Add snapshot exclusion folders

Xenocode releases Postbuild 2008 for instant, secure .NET deployments

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 18:07:02 GMT

Xenocode, a next-generation virtualization company, today announced the availability of Postbuild 2008 for .NET, a major update to its industry-leading code obfuscation and deployment solution for Windows developers. Xenocode Postbuild allows software developers to deploy .NET applications in a single, secure executable that runs anywhere, with or without the .NET Framework. Postbuild uses a range of powerful obfuscation techniques to protect intellectual property against decompilation and integrates directly with the advanced Xenocode application virtualization engine. The 2008 edition of Postbuild includes support for the latest .NET platforms and technologies, including Visual Studio 2008, .NET 3.0/3.5, WPF, and LINQ.

Postbuild 2008 for .NET incorporates the latest Xenocode application virtualization technology, allowing developers and ISVs to deploy applications in pre-configured virtual executables that run instantly on any Windows desktop via intranets, the Internet, USB keys, or existing desktop management infrastructure.

Postbuild’s deployment and virtualization capabilities include:

Native code generation: Postbuild allows developers to convert .NET binaries into native executables that run with or without an installed .NET Framework, or with a mismatched version of the Framework. Postbuild automatically identifies and statically binds a minimal set of Framework dependencies, reducing overall deployment size and eliminating dynamic link costs.
Assembly linking: Postbuild’s single-assembly output mode allows multi-assembly projects to be combined into a single output assembly, allowing for "copy" deployment of multi-assembly .NET applications. Linking is fully integrated into the obfuscation, optimization, and virtualization pipeline – encryption settings are automatically propagated across linked assemblies and redundant inter-assembly data are merged, reducing output assembly sizes.
Filesystem, registry, and service virtualization: Postbuild allows filesystem data, registry keys, and Windows services to be directly embedded within the executable. Virtual machine resources are visible to the executing application without any modifications to the host device. For example, application data files and COM components can be made available to the application without requiring any separate setup or registration. Virtualization also allows applications to emulate behavior of privileged applications under non-privileged user accounts.

Postbuild uses a range of powerful obfuscation techniques to inhibit decompilation, reverse engineering, and unauthorized distribution:

Symbol renaming: Postbuild renames symbolic metadata, such as class, variable, and method names, into meaningless characters, destroying the most valuable resource available to decompilers or hackers studying a compiled executable.
Control flow obfuscation: Postbuild manipulates the program control flow within the IL bytecode, editing branch instructions generated by compilers, inserting decoy branches, and re-ordering instruction sequences. This conceals the original structure of the control flow from decompilers.
Disassembly suppression: Postbuild applies counter-analysis techniques to executables to prevent popular decompilers from processing the binaries.
Code watermarking: Watermarking allows per-instance customization information, such as user names and registration codes, to be embedded into the visible text and internal binary structures within the assembly. Watermarking can assist in tracking distribution of product on a per-executable basis and deterring software licensing violations.

Postbuild’s integrated code optimization capabilities – including metadata reduction, transparent compression, dead code pruning, and dead and duplicate literal elimination – maximize application performance and minimize disk footprint.

Deploying applications processed by Postbuild does not require any per-end-user licensing fees or royalties. For more information on Postbuild’s features and benefits, or to download a free evaluation copy, visit the Xenocode Postbuild web page at http://www.xenocode.com/Products/Postbuild. For pricing information on Xenocode Postbuild, contact Xenocode at www.xenocode.com or call 1-877-223-3551 (in the United States) or 1-206-774-8769 (outside the United States).

Virtual Application Studio 2008 SP1 update 6.1.261 released

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:53:02 GMT

Added new 'Site' license model
New/Improved application templates and packages

Added Office 2007 application template
Update to Firefox application template
Update to .NET 3.0 and 3.5 packages

Improved configuration wizards
Added support for environment variables in sandbox path
Fixed service snapshot bug causing some services to be missed during snapshot
Fixed issue preventing some virtualized Office apps from running as non-admin
New support for virtual service-implemented COM servers
Improved short-filename support
Each app in application jukebox can have its own command line params
Fixed a few Studio UI bugs
Few miscellaneous virtual machine runtime bug fixes

Virtual Application Studio 2008 update 6.0.218 released

Tue, 06 May 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Introduced new stand-alone license activation tool for machines and removable storage
Fixed issue preventing activation on certain removable storage devices
Added configuration import wizard
Allow specifying isolation on top-level folders
Virtual runtime improvements and fixes:

Added support for Microsoft SQL Express
Fixed startup performance bug seen with virtual applications configured with non-exe startup file
Fix "shotgun" startup bug
Fixed bug seen when obtaining volume information on UNC style path
Fixed crash when required top-level folder not present on host machine
Fixed a few virtual service bugs
Fixed a few write-copy isolation issues
Fixed some DEP issues
Fixed bug preventing app.exe.config files from being seen on apps with RT_MANIFEST entry
Fixed few miscellaneous small virtual filesystem bugs
Added Windows PE support
Fixed some issues with virtual process environment blocking Safari and Gimp 2.2
Fixed SxS issue blocking Access 2007

Postbuild 2007 update 5.2.6935 now available

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:59:52 GMT

Simplified product activation process
Reliability improvements related to certain registry operations
Corrected Internet connectivity issue caused by some ISP configurations
Added support for app.exe.config files for VS2008-built applications
Fixed virtualization sandboxing issue on the WinPE platform

Postbuild 2007 update 5.2.6899 now available

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 17:50:47 GMT

Patch 5.2.6899 for Xenocode Postbuild 2007 is now available.

This update contains several virtualization system fixes, including patches for startup/exit process crashing errors and performance improvements for certain registry enumeration scenarios.

Virtual Application Studio 2008 update 6.0.179 released

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 23:00:00 GMT

Several Studio UI fixes
Improvements to IE6 application template
Snapshot fixes

Fixed a path replacement issue involving @SPECIALTOKENS@ during snapshot
Implemented 'Fast' snapshot mode

Virtual machine runtime fixes

Fix for Current Directory issue
Path normalization fix for volumes having common name prefix
Fix shutdown crash occurring in apps which return from entry point (vs. calling ExitProcess)
Fixed error-code issue causing NGen service to fail
Improved startup performance
Fixed TLS issue for statically linked dlls
Environment variables now support @SPECIALFOLDER@ tokens

Virtual Application Studio 2008 released!

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 02:21:23 GMT

Virtual Application Studio 2008 now available!

Code Systems is pleased to announce the availability of Xenocode Virtual Application Studio 2008!

We listened to your feedback and have added some of your most requested features — including MSI setup package generation, application jukeboxing, and the ability to run IE6 on Vista — as well as made dozens of compatibility and reliability improvements to the Xenocode Virtual OS kernel.

Virtual Application Studio 2008 is available for immediate download.

New in Virtual Application Studio 2008!

The 2008 edition of Virtual Application Studio introduces dozens of new features and enhancements, including:

§ MSI generation: Build Windows Installer MSI packages directly within the Virtual Application Studio environment. Setup packages support Start Menu and desktop shortcut creation, application executable installation, and shell file associations.

§ Jukeboxing: Easily virtualize product suites such as Microsoft Office and OpenOffice and expose multiple startup files within a single virtual executable. Automatically activate multiple applications on startup with "shotgun" launch support.

§ Internet Explorer 6 Emulation Mode: New Internet Explorer 6 shell emulation mode allows the IE6 web browser to run side-by-side with IE7, and to run on the Windows Vista operating system.

§ Pre-fabricated application library: Automatically synthesize virtual machines for popular Windows applications with a few clicks. The new pre-fabricated application wizard gets you started quickly, with no need to snapshot popular applications.

§ Rich metadata customization: Enhanced metadata customization support includes improved icon resource handling and custom metadata management. Metadata support is fully interoperable with Postbuild 2008.

§ Enhanced virtualization capabilities: New virtual machine features include comprehensive support for virtualizing Windows Services and environment variables.

§ Compatibility with the latest applications and components: The virtual machine kernel has been upgraded to support the latest applications, operating systems, and runtime platforms, including the .NET Framework 3.5.

"Why should I virtualize my applications?"

Xenocode virtualization allows your applications to be deployed in lightweight, pre-configured, ready-to-run virtual machines that execute immediately on end user desktops. Because they run in an isolated environment, virtual applications are insulated against failures due to DLL collisions, missing or mismatched component and runtime dependencies, and upgrades to Windows Vista.

Unlike whole-machine virtualization systems (VMware, Virtual PC, and similar), Xenocode virtual applications are compact and run at essentially the same speed as their native counterparts.

§ Be prepared for your Vista rollout: Ready to adopt Windows Vista but concerned about breaking your legacy applications? Deploying your applications in a Xenocode virtual machine allows most legacy applications, including Internet Explorer 6, to run without compatibility errors and UAC prompts on Windows Vista.

§ Reduce deployment, support, and maintenance costs: Eliminate support costs and risks associated with application setup by deploying your applications in lightweight, isolated virtual machines. Virtualized deployment insulates your applications against DLL collisions, upgrade breaks, and allows side-by-side co-existence of multiple application versions.

§ Customize enterprise applications: Pre-configure your off-the-shelf applications with settings and data appropriate for your organization. Eliminate the burden of time-consuming and error-prone setup and configuration steps from your users and prospective customers.

§ Centralize application management: Give your users instant access to all enterprise applications from a central repository. Virtual applications can be easily deployed from standard SMB file shares, web servers, USB keys, and trial CDs, with no separate infrastructure, specialized servers, or device driver installation required.

Are you a systems integrator using Xenocode?

The Xenocode Integrator Partner Program allows qualified software resellers and systems integrators to resell and distribute Xenocode licenses to their customers. Authorized resellers and integrators enjoy a substantial discount on Xenocode licenses. Orders can be fulfilled directly and instantly from the Xenocode web site.

For additional information and details on becoming a Xenocode reseller or integrator, please see the Xenocode Partner Programs information page.

Thank you!

This release reflects the valuable feedback and comments we received from the thousands of users who evaluated the beta. We appreciate your feedback and hope you enjoy using Xenocode Virtual Application Studio 2008.

Warm regards,

- The Xenocode Team

Virtual Application Studio 2008 BETA update 6.0.142 released

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 21:47:13 GMT

UI fixes and improvements

Changed default service 'KeepAlive' value to false
MSI control usability improved

Virtualization runtime fixes:

Fixed registry enumeration performance issue
Fixed problem with .NET apps running from a deep directory location
Fixed two PE (Portable Executable) mapping issues, one covering the SQLExpressSp2 installer
Fixed error hit when running multiple builds with same sandbox
Fixed portability issue with registry sandbox on Windows 2000

Several pre-fabricated virtual application fixes:

Fixed Ie6 prefab to include internet settings control
Improved the Firefox prefab fixing a few popup issues

Packages and pre-fabricated virtual application fixes:

Updated .NET 2.0 and 3.0 packages to Sp1
New licensing/activation mechanism for virtual application outputs

Virtual Application Studio 2008 BETA update 6.0.121 released

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 01:58:42 GMT

Many UI and usability improvements
Fixed several snapshotting issues
New feature to set virtual application sandbox location
Fixed several MSI output bugs
Completed virtual services support

Added 'KeepAlive' option
Full editing of service settings available in UI for advanced users

Support 32bit virtual applications using COM/ActiveX objects while running on Windows 64bit operating systems
Improved SxS support for multiple assemblies with same name but different version
Fixed bug occuring virtual application opens many handles
A few short filename fixes

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6839 released

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 22:33:34 GMT

Fixed SxS handling bug causing .NET applications built with Visual Studio 2008 not to run (fixes both Postbuild and Virtual Appliance Studio)

Announcing Virtual Application Studio 2008 BETA!

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Announcing Virtual Application Studio 2008 BETA!

Dear Friends of Xenocode,

Code Systems is pleased to announce the availability of the 2008 pre-release edition of Xenocode Virtual Application Studio!

We listened to your feedback and have added some of your most requested features — like MSI setup package generation, jukeboxing, and the ability to run IE6 on Vista — as well as made dozens of compatibility and reliability improvements to our virtual OS kernel.

And, until December 31, 2007, we invite you to take 20% off your purchase of Xenocode 2008 End User Licenses. To take advantage of this offer, just enter promotion code XMAS07 during checkout.

Download Virtual Application Studio 2008 Now

Virtual Application Studio 2008 Pre-Release is available for immediate download.

New in Virtual Application Studio 2008!

The 2008 edition of Virtual Application Studio introduces dozens of new features and enhancements, including:

§ Internet Explorer 6 Compatibility Mode: New Internet Explorer 6 shell emulation mode allows the IE6 web browser to run side-by-side with IE7, and to run on the Windows Vista operating system.

§ Enhanced virtualization capabilities: New virtual machine features include comprehensive support for virtualizing Windows Services and environment variables.

Ends soon! Take 20% off End User license purchases until December 31!

Thinking about adopting application virtualization in the New Year? Prepare for 2008 by purchasing your Xenocode Virtual OS licenses now at a 20% discount. Offer expires at the stroke of midnight, January 1, 2008!

All purchases include a free upgrade to the final version of Virtual Application Studio 2008 when it becomes available in Q1 2008, as well as one year of maintenance and upgrades from the final version availability date. Your purchase includes access to a retail version of the 2008 pre-release build, which may be used for production deployments.

Enter promotion code XMAS07 during checkout to receive discount pricing!

"Why should I virtualize my applications?"

Unlike whole-machine virtualization systems (VMware, Virtual PC, and similar), Xenocode virtual applications are compact and run at essentially the same speed as their native counterparts.

Happy Holidays!

Thanks to all of you for an incredible 2007! We hope you have a safe and relaxing holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Best wishes,

- The Xenocode Team

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6798 released

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 22:40:34 GMT

Virtual Appliance Studio

Fixed issue with wizard not enabling the VirtualMachine="true" in the resulting .xappl configuration file. Would prevent additional packages from being included in output appliance.

Virtual Machine runtime fixes (both Postbuild and Virtual Appliance Studio)

Fixed issue seen on Vista preventing the starting of child processes via .cmd or .bat files
Fixed problem seen on Vista in the creation of 'Low integrity' child processes

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6774 released

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:49:13 GMT

Virtualization runtime fixes

Reduce runtime virtual memory consumption
Fixed error when starting child processes having an <app>.exe.manifest file. (occurred on WinXP and Win2K3 only)
Fixed support for GetBinaryType API
Fixed problem which could cause premature unloading of dependent DLLs
Improved support for virtualized Windows services
OS compatibility fixes and improvements

Implemented Postbuild feature to prevent .NET profilers from profiling protected application

Xenocode Fox 2007 update 5.1.4 released

Sat, 03 Nov 2007 03:44:24 GMT

Fixed intermittent crashing bug when retrieving profile results data
Fixed intermittent problem initilizing native symbols
Fix for missing profile data for calls into generics code

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6755 released

Sat, 03 Nov 2007 03:13:03 GMT

Virtualization runtime fixes

Numerous OS compatibility fixes and improvements
Decreased virtualization runtime overhead (both size and resource usage)
Improved startup performance for large virtual appliances

Fixed XBuild hang when invoked by Visual Studio in a certain manner

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6731 released

Tue, 09 Oct 2007 21:37:11 GMT

Virtualization runtime fixes

Fixed issue causing file-not-found for virtual files when opened in a particular manner
Fixed OS compatibilty issue with certain protected applications

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6719 released

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 21:23:54 GMT

New Virtual Appliance Studio wizard
User interface improvements
Virtualization compatibilty fixes and improvements

Fixed virtual registry enumeration hang
Fixed a query-value issue with the virtual registry
Fixed problem causing the starting of child processes of virtualized appliance to fail if they had been modified since the last start
Fixed issue causing certain virtual file write operations to fail
Fixed short filename issue

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6705 released

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:14:13 GMT

Improve Postbuild and Virtual Appliance Studio startup performance
Virtual Machine fixes

Fix for problem causing strong name validation failure for signed assemblies running on Vista
Fixed isloation problem involving two different appliances using same virtual file
Fixed permissions problem causing some applications from starting
Fix certain registry query value operations

Xenocode Fox 2007 update 5.1.3 released

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:12:23 GMT

Fix rendering bug on windows 2000 systems
A few decompilation fixes

Postbuild 2007 and Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6677 released

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 19:50:31 GMT

Fixes critical problems in both 32 and 64bit Windows compatibility

Postbuild update 5.2.6673 released

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 19:46:34 GMT

Added 'Click Once' project preset
Improved preset logic
Fix to allow viewing watermarks on applications processed by Postbuild 2007 SP2 builds
Virtual Machine fixes

Fix to honor virtual app.exe.manifest files
Fix for proper handling of localized paths on Vista
Vista fix for problem causing exception handlers in startup exe not being honored
Fix to properly hookup a certain class of executable dependencies
Fixed problem causing higher than normal working set

Virtual Appliance Studio update 5.2.6673 released

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:50:31 GMT

Fix to honor virtual app.exe.manifest files
Fix for proper handling of localized paths on Vista
Vista fix for problem causing exception handlers in startup exe not being honored
Fix to properly hookup a certain class of executable dependencies
Fixed problem causing higher than normal working set

Virtual Appliance Studio SP2 Released

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 18:40:15 GMT

Virtual Appliance Studio SP2 has arrived!

Component gallery allows single-click installation of popular third party components
Build process automation support via new XStudio.exe command
Snapshotting feature now allows saving “before” snapshot images
Improved snapshotting performance
Support for writes and special folder redirection in virtualized operating system
Support for startup command line arguments, splash graphics, and custom icons
Support for Windows Side-by-Side (SxS) isolated assemblies
Automatic relativization of paths in configuration files
Improved memory consumption in virtualization engine
Numerous compatibility and reliability improvements
New CAL-based licensing model available

Postbuild 2007 SP2 Released

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 18:31:38 GMT

Xenocode Postbuild 2007 SP2 has arrived!

Integrates directly with Visual Studio 2005
Obfuscation reliability and preset heuristics improvements
Support for writes and special folder redirection in virtualized operating system
Support for Windows Side-by-Side (SxS) isolated assemblies
Source files are no longer locked during processing
Improved memory consumption in virtualization engine
Numerous compatibility and reliability improvements