Today we will talk a little about virtualization. Indeed, this is a technique that allows us to create a layer of software on which we can run different logical or virtual computers independent of the real PC. On the other hand, here we have analyzed the native method of Windows 10 to virtualize. Similarly, we take a look at a dedicated app like VirtualBox. Well, today I bring you another commercial alternative called VMware. Please note that this is a paid software. However, the company also offers a trial version and other free versions with limitations for domestic use. In fact, today we will analyze this free version called VMware Workstation Player. Despite the limitations, this version is sufficient to virtualize systems in a domestic environment. Come with me to see how to install and use VMware on Windows 10.
Some advantages of VMware.
- Great 3D performance. It is compatible with DirectX 10.1 and OpenGL 3.3
- It supports huge virtual machines, with 16 virtual cores, 8 TB of storage, 64 GB of RAM, and 3 GB of graphics memory.
- Supports resolutions up to 4K UHD.
- Enables the creation of complex virtual networks.
- It allows the cloning of virtual machines.
- It allows taking snapshots to restore the virtual machine to a previous state.
- Compatible with virtual machines created in other programs.
How to download and install VMware Workstation Player
As mentioned, today we will analyze the free version of this software. With this intention, please follow this link. Currently, the most recent version is number 15.5.5. Additionally, the installation process is very simple and similar to any Windows app. However, let’s detail it. Once you have downloaded the file, double-click on it to start the installation.
You then accept the license agreement.
Then confirm the program installation path. You can also install the enhanced keyboard driver.
Now choose options to check for updates at program startup. At the same time you can join the user experience improvement program.
It then establishes aspects related to the direct access of the application.
After the preparations are done, press finish to start the installation.
After a few moments, the installation will be complete.
Creating our first virtual machine with VMware Workstation Player
All right, it’s time to create our first virtual machine. To do this, it is essential to have the ISO of the guest system. Once the program is launched, please click on Create a New Virtual Machine.
As mentioned, in this step the ISO of the operating system to be installed must be added. Additionally, the program has the option to use a DVD as installation media. Similarly, you can add the ISO later. In that case, the program will create a blank virtual hard disk.
VMware has a very intuitive wizard that determines the type of system to be virtualized. However, sometimes it is unable to do this so you must indicate it manually.
Then assign the name to the virtual machine and its location.
Then specify the size of the virtual hard disk. Please note that it has to be smaller than the size of the physical disk itself.
Finally, the virtual machine is ready to be created. Please note that the VMware wizard is very intuitive and assigns the settings automatically. In fact, it does this by taking into account the characteristics of the host and guest system. However, you can modify these values by clicking on Customize Hardware.
If you choose the option to customize hardware, then you will see the following window where you can modify the values to your liking.
Ultimately, the virtual machine is ready to be launched.
VMware Workstation Player running Linux Mint 19.3 en Windows 10
Conclusion
At the end of the day, we saw how to install and use VMware on Windows 10. This is an interesting option to virtualize other systems within Windows. Consequently, it is possible to test them without actually installing them on the computer. Well, that’s it for now. See you soon!
