A template enables you to create multiple VMs using the same set of standard settings (guest operating system, hardware, storage devices, and network settings). When you create (or clone) a new VM from a template, you can personalize the settings required for the new VM.
You create templates from existing VMs. Currently, templates are supported only for Xen VMs and VMware VMs. You cannot create a template from a Hyper-V VM.
The following sections provide information to help you create and manage templates: