I would like to run a few repeated checks on a setup procedure I am documenting, to verify my document. I would like to somehow create a VM that replicates the environment on my machine, i.e. the host machine, onto a guest VM. Then I can use Windows' System Restore on the guest to start at the point before I commenced the setup procedure and repeat it as many times as required until no more trial-and-error etc. is required to supplement my document.

I have Virtual PC and VirtualBox available to install as host environments, running on Windows 7 Professional.

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See the article VirtualBox P2V Success for how to convert a Windows machine to VirtualBox by using the VMware vCenter Converter.

Another possibility is Paragon Backup & Recovery 2011 (Advanced) Free, using the P2V Migration wizard, which can, according to the documentation, convert any partition to a VM.

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I've finally tried this, but I get a startup error on the guest box. I'll follow up and report back. – ProfKaos Apr 26 '11 at 7:23
Added another possibility. – harrymc Apr 26 '11 at 8:32
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Yet another possibility: Disk2vhd.

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