Virtual machines allow us to install operating systems on top of Windows so that we can install a second operating system, and any program, on top of our main system. The main advantage of these machines is that they allow us to test systems, programs and configurations with the assurance that nothing we do on them will alter the operation of our main operating system. There are many programs that allow us to set up this type of page, but one of the oldest, and most popular, is VMware.
VMware is one of the largest and most popular virtualization companies in both home and business environments. This company has a wide catalog of solutions of all kinds so that everyone can find the products that best suit their needs. The software that interests us, to be able to virtualize operating systems, is VMware Workstation .
The machines created with this program are usually the ones that offer the best performance, in addition to being compatible with a greater number of operating systems. The most complete software capable of meeting the needs of any user, both for use at home and in business.
VMware Workstation Player vs Pro
Within VMware Workstation we can find two editions. The most popular and widespread is the Pro. This is the paid edition of the program, it costs 275 euros , and it is the most complete solution we will find.
However, for personal use, VMware Workstation has an edition that we can use for free: VMware Player . Broadly speaking, the Pro and Player editions are the same, although the second has a series of limitations and restrictions that we must take into account, such as:
- It has no tab-based interface.
- It lacks Snapshots (snapshots or backup copies of VMs).
- It only allows one virtual machine to run at the same time.
- It does not allow cloning machines.
- The sharing function is not available.
- Unable to create or use encrypted virtual machines.
- It does not have an SSH mode for Linux that allows us to connect with one click.
- It does not allow renaming virtual networks.
- It does not have a virtual network simulator.
- Cannot connect to vSphere / ESXi servers.
- Not supported by vSphere Host Power Control.
Many of these limitations may be irrelevant to us, because surely we do not need their functions. But there are some of these limitations that can be annoying. For example, not being able to share files, the limitation of running only one virtual machine at a time, or not being able to take snapshots. And paying 275 euros for it is excessive, especially when there are free alternatives that offer this, and much more, such as VirtualBox.
VirtualBox, the best solution for walking around the house
VirtualBox is the main alternative to VMware. This software is characterized above all by being a totally free and open source program. VirtualBox has some limitations with respect to VMware, especially in the performance of certain operating systems. However, all its functions are completely free. And this program does not have the main limitations of VMware Player, so we can create snapshots, run multiple virtual machines at the same time, and share files between the VM and the host, as well as between virtual machines.
This virtualization software does not have a tab-based interface, but each virtual machine opens in a separate window, so we can differentiate each machine without problems.
What software should I use?
VMware Workstation Pro is the most complete. But, of course, it is not worth what it costs. And even less having an alternative, like VirtualBox, that we can use completely free of charge. VMware offers us its free edition, Player, which brings many of the features of the Pro, but is too limited, and key functions, such as snapshots, cannot be used. Therefore, it is not a viable option.
If you are thinking of virtualizing an operating system, the best program that you can download today is VirtualBox. For personal and domestic use, it will be able to satisfy all the needs when trying new operating systems, and any type of program, without altering the functioning of our PC.
You can download VirtualBox to start using it right away at this link .
