Among the notable updates in the latest release of Application Workspace 4.4 is one quiet addition: CimFS support for Attach Virtual Disk actions. It’s an update several of our largest customers have been waiting for and one worth highlighting due to its benefits for both cloud and on-premises devices.
You might recall that previous versions of Application Workspace allowed packages to mount virtual hard disk (VHD and VHDX) into specific empty folders on devices. In 4.4, our engineering team expanded this existing feature by adding support for CIM files on Windows. MSIX application content can now be mounted as a read-only file system, making applications instantly accessible without requiring full installation.
Here’s what CimFS brings to the table.
What is CimFS?
CimFS (Composite Image File System) is a Microsoft file system introduced around 2020–21 mainly for MSIX App Attach and modern Windows use. It is a containerized, read-only file system for packaged applications that reduces resource usage—using less memory and CPU—and allows faster mounting and unmounting of virtual disks. CimFS is a file-backed image format similar to WIM or VHD, but it is optimized for both speed and flexibility. It consists of a small set of flat files (data regions, metadata, object IDs, and filesystem descriptions).
Why does CimFS matter?
This update improves App Attach compatibility, especially for Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD). But Application Workspace doesn’t just limit you to using it within AVD environments. It can also be used on physical devices or Windows 365 (Cloud PC). Using CimFS, MSIX app content can be mounted as read-only, allowing instant access without full installation. This enhancement is particularly valuable in non-persistent desktop environments.
How does CimFS work in Application Workspace?
To begin, it’s essential to obtain both the Family Name and Family Package Name from the MSIX Package in use. Below you’ll find an in-depth YouTube video that walks through all the steps you’ll need.
Wrapping it all up
The addition of CimFS support for Attach Virtual Disk actions in the new release of Application Workspace provides benefits for both cloud and physical devices. The update enhances compatibility, particularly for Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365 environments, by enabling faster, more resource-efficient application access.
Learn more about Application Workspace.
