Virtualization and emulation provide the technical basis for a potential preservation strategy to keep performing digital objects accessible, despite obsolescence of their original technical platform. By simulating the presence of physical components, in the form of virtual hardware, it is possible to maintain the software environments needed to run original software. In this paper we describe a conceptual model to analyse and document the hardware and software elements of software-based artworks, in order to then identify dependencies and assess risks. This information is used to select the most appropriate options when creating disk images, and to make decisions about whether an emulation or virtualization platform is more appropriate in supporting these disk images. We conclude with recommendations for ensuring the sustainability of disk images in the medium-to-long-term, and strategies to mitigate the risks related to external dependencies.

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