I'd like to create a situation where a standard MS development stack is wholly contained within in a VM such that I can share (via USB enclosure) the identical development environment between main desktop, laptop and backup desktop (all win7 boxes).
Ideally I'd like to create the VM image from the existing install on my desktop - i'd like to avoid re-installing everything from scratch. To be honest, it seems unlikely that services so deeply ingrained in the OS can be lifted and transferred to create a stable working environment but a guy can dream.
So, if this _is a realistic expectation, what's my first step? What's the best VM app to look at? I don't have to stay on the free-ware side of the street but this is a one-off installation and funds are out of personal, not corporate pocket.