VMware Workstation

[Shane]

Hi,

I wanted to try linux.
I have tried Ubuntu Live cd and like it so i want to install it for good.
But i had never installed another Operating system before and i didnt want to risk accidently messing up my OEM install of Xp home .

So a friend of mine recomended that i install VMware Workstation and he said i can run Ubuntu and i wouldnt need to create a partion and install linux as it would run as a Virtual machine.

Im a bit confused to what VMware Workstation actualy does.

Can anyone explain how VMware Workstation works?
Thanks

 

[Smoko]

Taken from Wikipedia

VMware Workstation is one of the commercial software products sold by VMware Inc. The Workstation software consists of a virtual machine suite for Intel x86-compatible computers which allows the creation and execution of multiple x86 virtual computers simultaneously. Each virtual machine instance can execute its own guest operating system, such as (but not limited to) Windows, Linux, BSD variants. In simple terms, VMware Workstation allows one physical machine to run numerous operating systems simultaneously. Other VMware products help manage or migrate VMware virtual machines across multiple host machines.

VMware Workstation has grown in popularity due to the large number of servers proliferating in the corporate setting. Transferring workstations and servers to the virtual machine environment allows for easier management, a reduction in footprint and greater redundancy.

They have a free version called "VMPlayer", but you need premade virtual machines.

From my personal experiance, VMWare is alright to use if you only want to use a shell or have a beast of a computer (It makes a Virtual Machine, with the specs at least 50% lower than your real one).

If I were you, I would find someone who can install it for you. Or, back up all your important data and try your luck. Just remember to keep your XP serial number, you can always get an installer for it.