A Definition of VMware Player
VMware Player is a free utility for computers running Windows. It allows you to create and use virtual machines on your computer. Although the idea of computer virtualization may be confusing to some, it is highly useful for a number of tasks. It's important to know the intricacies of VMware Player, its uses and its place on your computer.
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Definition
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Computer virtualization is essentially the act of running a software-based computer within a physical computer. VMware Player devotes a portion of your computer's hard drive, memory and processor to the virtual computer, displaying the "screen" of that computer in a window. You interface with the virtual computer exactly as you would a physical one, simply shutting the virtual machine down or closing the window when you are finished.
Uses
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You can install any operating system on a virtual machine if the physical computer meets the minimum system requirements. This allows you to try a new operating system such as Linux without disturbing the programs and files on your computer. If you want to download a free program but are unsure of its safety, install and test it on a virtual machine. If the program contains malware, the malware damages the virtual machine while the physical computer remains unharmed. You can simply delete the virtual machine and create another one. If you want to play a classic computer game that only works on an older operating system such as Windows 98, you can install that operating system on a virtual machine and play the game on your modern computer. VMware Player is an adequate replacement for a second physical computer in many situations.
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Obtaining VMware Player
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Download VMware Player free from the official VMware website (see "Resources"). You must register with VMware by entering your name and email address to obtain the software.
Performance Issues
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VMware Player requires a powerful computer for adequate performance. You must have enough memory installed to meet the system requirements of the operating system on your computer as well as the operating system running on the virtual machine; while the virtual machine runs, the RAM it uses is unavailable for other tasks. For best performance, the processor in your computer should have at least two cores: one to devote to the virtual machine, and one for the operating system running on the physical computer. Many modern processors include enhancements for virtual machine performance, such as Intel's VT technology.
Legal Issues
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Software piracy laws apply to virtual machines just as they do to physical computers. It is not legal to use commercial software on a virtual machine unless you have purchased the software and have the right to use it on your physical computer.
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