ThinApp

ThinApp is an application virtualization product developed by VMware that packages Windows applications into self-contained, portable executables or installer files. Originally created as Thinstall and acquired by VMware in 2008, ThinApp isolates applications from the underlying operating system and other installed software by redirecting file system and registry access to a virtualized container. This approach reduces installation conflicts, simplifies deployment, and supports running multiple versions of the same application side-by-side.

The ThinApp workflow typically uses a capture-and-package model: a baseline snapshot of a clean system is taken, an application is installed, and a second snapshot records changes. Those changes are compiled into a single portable package that contains the application binaries, supporting files, and a runtime that intercepts API calls. Packages can be deployed as standalone executables, MSIs, or integrated with software distribution systems and desktop management solutions.

Key capabilities include application isolation, portability across supported Windows versions, and reduced dependency on per-machine installation. ThinApp does not virtualize kernel-mode components or replace full desktop virtualization; drivers and certain system-level interactions remain outside its scope. Use cases include migration and compatibility, conflict resolution, and simplified application delivery for virtual desktop infrastructures.

ThinApp is offered as part of VMware’s product portfolio and is used in enterprise environments to streamline application lifecycle management, reduce packaging complexity, and support mixed-application legacy scenarios.