IE8 does have some compatibility modes to run older apps, but does not have any compatibility with IE6. So in lieu of fixing and replacing all incompatible apps, there are cheaper and quicker virtualization solutions, writes Gartner.

Running IE6 on from a terminal server or from hosted virtual desktops are temporary ways to access the old browser through a Windows XP virtual machine on Windows 7.

Terminal servers are probably the more mature and cheaper of the virtualization alternatives, writes Gartner. But these solutions can get complicated, as most users do not know how to use these technologies and are not licensed for them. Also Windows XP compatibility with terminal services can also be problematic, so Gartner recommends IT pros do their homework before they invest in Terminal Servers or Hosted Virtual Desktops.