Operating system virtualization for Windows
Screenshots
VMware Workstation Pro is a software that allows you to use one desktop computer to run multiple OSs without installing them on your PC. This process enables developers, students, and companies to test software on their computers without having to have multiple machines to handle the different processes. Also, it provides the atmosphere needed for testing for clouds and platforms.
Powerful developers tool
VMware has had a long tradition of developing virtualization software, whether for students or companies. They are so prolific at updating their program that the latest version is always hard to pin down as they continually keep modernizing to keep up with the times.
The workstation provides a sandbox environment to work with the various OS that you will need to test and enable whatever you are working on to run in other conditions. The program runs smoothly on Linux and Windows.
It does not support anything prior to Windows 7, however, it also works for Ubuntu 15.04 and over. Other systems it supports are CentOS and Oracle. It can virtualize over 200 operating systems on any computer it works on.
One important thing to know about it is the hefty price that comes after the trial period. VMware Workstation Pro is not free. However, it does come ready to synchronize with other products from the same company, which is something to consider. In contrast, the free version is known as the VMware Workstation Player. It ships with far fewer features than the pro version.
How do I use VMware workstation pro?
Once you have downloaded the program, you will have to install it after you make sure there are no other VMware products on the hardware. During the installation process, users will need to input settings that will define the way it interacts with your system. These specialized options allow you to be able to run the software smoothly.
Once you restart the PC, the server will be running. You will have a variety of options to choose from when you get started. The main function is interacting with Virtual Machines. Using the Library which appears on the left of the screen allows you to view the different options available like which systems can be run, remote hosts, and folders.
There are the thumbnails and status bar that you can use to view information the program is sending you. Also, it allows you to have immediate control over your hardware.
You can use the view menu to customize how the Workstation looks. Finally, there are hot-key functions that are available for working within the program. You can find them and their uses in the menus of the software.
What are the features available?
Creating VMs is important, however, there are many more features needed to provide a good experience like the seamless mode that allows you to feel as if the VM is totally part of the PC. The most useful of which are the two snapshots and checkpoints.
Snapshots allow you to take pictures of the VM that you are running and save it automatically to your main system. On the other hand, checkpoints allow you to save where you were with the virtual machine and pick back up from that point.
Workstation Pro is a Type 2 hypervisor, which means it executes its command by running them through the host software. Another important feature is the improved graphics generator with support DirectX 10.1 and OpenGL 3.3 allowing for greater 3D projection.
The software provides two important functions for developers who need more than just physical computers. It can also generate virtual networks and vSphere and vCloud Air. This fact means teams can work side by side with each other over cloud spaces or use their systems from whatever computer they have with them anywhere.
VMware focuses on having easy to use interface options. As it can be installed easily and doesn’t complicate the processes available, it is hassle-free. Lastly, it can smooth the operations that demand high resources while using 4K UHD and QHD+ resolutions.
Is VMware Workstation Pro Safe?
Yes, it is safe, and the company takes care to ensure your continued safety. You can totally isolate the machine, and test it with forensic tools also to make sure the system is safe.
All your VMs can be encrypted end to end and used. Furthermore, passwords can be added. Especially for companies protecting their data, the Virtual Machine can be locked down preventing copying to external drives.
What are the alternatives to the VMware Workstation Pro?
VMware also supports the Workstation Player which is a free version of the Pro. However, this one lacks the vital features of snapshot and checkpoint. Also, it cannot be used for corporate purposes, unlike the Pro. The Player also cannot run multiple VMs at the same time or create protected ones. However, considering that it is free compared to the hefty price, that isn’t much lost.
Virtualbox is relatively similar to the Pro, however, it is open source and therefore free. It demands fewer resources from the system but is more difficult to use and the seamless mode leaves much to be desired. Also, it does not provide as much functionality especially for large companies as VMware does with all of its software that can be integrated with Pro.
Hyper-V is the last main competitor with Workstation for Windows. The main problem with it is that it only works on Windows 10 but not on the Home version, which is a severe downside. Also, it does not support macOS as a guest system. However, it is a Type 1 Hypervisor, which means it does interact faster than VMware does. It does not have a seamless mode as well which puts it even further down.
Optimized virtualization for everything
Overall, VMware doesn’t have any apparent problems with it. If you need to create virtual operating environments, this software is a top choice to do what you want. With a lack of bugs in the system and a strong background in development, this program is one that you should consider.
The most recent updates fixed some vulnerabilities with extensions of the trial time.
