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How to Create a Virtual Machine in VMware Workstation
Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
VMware WorkstationVirtual MachineConfigurationSoftware SetupVirtualizationOperating SystemPCDesktopResource ManagementBeginnersSoftware UseComputer UseVirtual EnvironmentsHome Lab
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Creating a virtual machine (VM) using VMware Workstation is a process that allows you to run an operating system within another operating system. This is incredibly useful for testing software, running older applications, or using different operating systems without the need for additional hardware. In this guide, we'll learn the steps required to create a virtual machine using VMware Workstation. By the end of this guide, you should feel comfortable setting up your first virtual machine.
Understanding virtual machines
A virtual machine is exactly what it sounds like – a computer within a computer. It is a software implementation of a physical machine that can run an operating system and applications just like a physical computer. VMware Workstation is one of the popular software solutions for creating and managing virtual machines on the desktop. It acts as a host for the guest operating system you run inside it.
Requirements
Before you can create a virtual machine in VMware Workstation, you need to make sure you have a few things:
- VMware Workstation: You must have VMware Workstation installed on your computer. You can install it by downloading it from the official website of VMware.
- ISO file: You will need the ISO file of the operating system you want to install in your virtual machine. This ISO file acts as a virtual disk to install your operating system.
- Enough disk space: Make sure you have enough disk space to host the virtual machine's files, as a VM can take up several gigabytes.
- Enough RAM: Make sure you have enough RAM, as some of the RAM will be allocated to the virtual machine whenever it runs.
Steps to create a virtual machine
Step 1: Launch VMware Workstation
Start by opening VMware Workstation. Once it opens, you'll see the initial welcome screen, where you can see the options to create a new virtual machine, open an existing machine, and a few other options.
Step 2: Start the new virtual machine wizard
Click "File" from the menu bar at the top of the VMware Workstation window, then click "New Virtual Machine." Alternatively, you can click "Create New Virtual Machine" in the Home tab. This action will open the New Virtual Machine Wizard which will guide you through the process.
Step 3: Choose the type of configuration
In the New Virtual Machine wizard, you will be asked to choose between Typical or Custom configuration. For most users, Typical configuration is the best option, as it simplifies the process. However, if you are experienced with virtual machines and need more control over the setup, you can choose Custom. For the sake of simplicity let's proceed with Typical configuration.
Step 4: Choose the installation media
Next, you need to select the installation media. You have three options:
- Installer Disk: Select this if you have a physical CD/DVD of the operating system.
- Installer disk image file (ISO): Select this option if you have an ISO file of the operating system.
- I will install the operating system later: Select this if you want to create a virtual machine and install the operating system later.
For our example, select “Installer Disk Image File (ISO)” and browse to the location of your ISO file.
Step 5: Select the guest operating system
Now, you need to choose the type of operating system you are going to install. VMware Workstation supports a variety of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and others. Select the operating system you want to install from the list. If it is not listed, select "Other."
Step 6: Name the virtual machine
You will be asked to enter a name for your virtual machine. Choose a name that is descriptive and will allow you to easily identify it among your other virtual machines. Also, choose the location on your computer where you want to store the virtual machine files.
Step 7: Specify the disk capacity
The wizard will ask you to specify the disk capacity for your virtual machine. You must allocate enough space for the operating system and any applications you plan to install. It is generally a good idea to allow additional space for future updates and software installations. You also have the option of storing the virtual disk as a single file or splitting it into multiple files.
Step 8: Configure hardware settings
After setting the disk capacity, you can configure additional hardware settings for the virtual machine, such as the amount of RAM, number of processors, network connection settings, and more. Click the “Customize Hardware” button to make these changes. Make sure the hardware configuration meets the requirements of the operating system you plan to install.
Step 9: Finish the setup
After customizing the hardware settings, review all of your options to make sure they are correct. Once you are satisfied, click "Finish" to complete the creation of the virtual machine.
Step 10: Turn on the virtual machine
Once the virtual machine is created, it will now appear in the left pane of the VMware Workstation window. To start the virtual machine, select it and click "Start this virtual machine". The VM will boot up and you can begin installing the operating system following the normal installation procedures for that OS.
Conclusion
You have successfully created a virtual machine using VMware Workstation. You can now install and run software in the virtual environment without affecting your host operating system. VMware Workstation offers various features and settings you can explore to customize and better manage your virtual machines, making it a powerful tool for developers, testers, and IT professionals. Remember to monitor resource usage to keep your host machine responsive while your VMs are running.
Whether you're experimenting with new software, learning new operating systems, or testing updates, virtual machines provide a convenient way to do so without the need for physical machines. As you become more comfortable with VMware Workstation, you can explore more advanced configurations and settings to tailor your virtual computing environment to your specific needs.
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