More and more, developers are learning the value of using virtualization to segregate their various OS version, development environments. To do so, one would create a separate virtual machine per permutation. They are also great for testing OS, software applications, … without needlessly messing up your main OS/registry/…
Microsoft Virtual PC – Windows XP Mode
Now, years ago, I became content using Microsoft’s offering Microsoft Virtual PC – Windows XP Mode. It works, but has a number of limitations, the 2 biggest being:
- does not support x64 bit OSs
- does not support multiple monitors
Once again Microsoft had a nice application but it was only half-baked and they never did what they had to do to keep it current and relevant with the other market offerings.
Oracle VM VirtualBox
Frustrated with not being able to use a dual monitor configuration, I then decided to try out Oracle’s VM VirtualBox (Free). Although it did support x64 bit OSs, it fell short on the multiple monitor support. To support dual monitors, it required command line code and even then you end up with 2 application windows, not a true seamless experience I was looking for. Advanced configuration is done through command line code and it just isn’t as user-friendly as I had hoped. I don’t want to learn a new programming language just to use a VM, I want a simple, functional software program that I run and it works.
VMware WorkStation Pro and WorkStation Player
I finally decided to test out, and now purchase, a copy of VMWare’s Workstation Pro (approx. $250US) and must say what a beautiful piece of software. Easy to use, natively supports true multiple monitors. Depending on your needs be sure to check out VMWare’s Workstation Player (approx. $150US) first as it may suffice for your need and save you $100.
Another pro is the fact that VMware has a file converter to convert existing virtual machines from other platforms into the VMware format. I managed to quickly convert my main Virtual PC VM and got quickly back to work, but with multiple monitors!
With VMware you can also very easily create virtual machine clones in a fraction of the time it would normally take you to build a new virtual machine.
Also, I’ve had to call their support desk twice so far and they have always been very helpful in answering all my questions.
Lastly, an odd issue that will not impact most people, but by switching to VMware I have eliminated all my problems with Cisco’s AnyConnect. Using MS VirtualPC it required disabling the Integration Features (no copy/paste between host and VM, no access to host drives, … making interaction very painful). This is not the case using WorkStation. Futhremore, the connection behaves much faster. My upload/download speed are much better (I have no clue why, but they are).