With Microsoft stating that App-V is end of life April 2026. Is this really its end of life? App-V has been around about 23 years now, previously known as Softgrid. So although the App-V client is currently present in Windows 10 and 11, this may not be the case going forward.
Microsoft will be removing the App-V client from newer versions of Windows after the April 2026. So, companies that use App-V will need to start planning how they will deploy their applications in the future.
So what is the alternative ? Microsoft’s recommendation is for users to transition to Azure Virtual Desktop using MSIX App attach. But is MSIX a good replacement for App-V…. Not quite, as it lacks the functionality that App-V had – so not all applications that could be created in App-V can be done in MSIX. At the moment rough figures are that only 80% of applications done as App-V will work in MSIX.
So what are the alternatives for companies currently using app-v ?
- Go back to deploying EXEs/MSI packages
- Package using MSIX (although not yet as functional as App-V)
- Use alternative application virtualisation technologies like:
- Numecent Cloudplaging
- Other App layering products:
- Liquidware FlexApp
- Citrix App Layering
- Vmware Volumes
- Or simply carry on using App-V beyond its end of life for as long as it is possible
How can we help
At Adaptrix we have years of experience of Softgrid/App-V and other virtualised technologies, so get in touch to see how we can help with your strategy and way forward for App-V end of life.