Abstract: A method and mechanism for managing operating system instances in a computing system. A computing system is configured to enable users to model and manage operating system instances. One or more defined operating system instances may be created and stored for future use. Each of the defined operating system instances may include a description of required resources. In addition, the definition of desired and/or optimal resources may be specified. In response to an attempt to realize an operating system instance, a determination is made as to whether resources allocated for the operating system instance are adequate. If the allocated resources are inadequate, further resources may be allocated. In addition, a determination may be made as to whether a standby mode is indicated for the operating system instance. If a standby mode is indicated, the operating system instance may be realized but not booted.

Abstract: A containment framework sufficiently compact and efficient to run on a wide variety of resource-constrained, small footprint devices, such as personal data assistants (PDAs), smart cellular phones, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, etc. The containment framework may support services which integrate with network-based services to deliver personalized content to small footprint device users.