Virtualise Windows 7 on MacOS X with VMware Fusion

VMware Fusion is a virtualisation software that allows you to run Windows 7 while remaining on MacOS X. Very useful for running your PC applications, VMware Fusion now has an advanced integration mode called Unicity that completely hides the presence of Windows.

Concepts of virtualisation

With the transition to Intel architectures, Apple allowed its users to install via the Boot Camp wizard, a version of Windows. However, it works like any PC in dual-boot: it is up to you to define which system to launch during the start-up phase of the computer.

The advantage of virtualisation lies in the fact that you can run 2 operating systems in parallel. In addition, the virtual machine — Windows 7 in our tutorial, is in no way isolated from the host machine — MacOS X Snow Leopard: shared folders make it easy to transmit data — for example, Office documents.

Also note that one of the principles of virtualisation is the pooling of hardware resources (graphic card, processor, RAM, etc.). As well, it is best to have a powerful computer even if most recent Macs will not experience performance concerns.

Innovative Features of VMware Fusion

Interesting features include:

• Shared office (for integrated mode only): offers the ability to edit files on both MacOS and Windows. Be careful what you do then;
• Unicity mode : hide Windows presence and run PC applications from MacOS. An example below with Internet Explorer. Very practical for web developers;
• Running a Boot Camp partition : physics with virtual! If you have installed a version of Windows via the Boot Camp wizard, VMware Fusion is able to run it directly on MacOS. A truly useful and appreciable feature;

Configuration and use of VMware Fusion 3

Fusion 3 installation

To download the trial version of VMWare Fusion 3, limited to 30 days trial, it is necessary to create a online account. Too bad but most commercial software requires prior registration.

Once you are registered then you can log in and download VMWare Fusion 3.

VMware Fusion 3 (170.8) MiB, 1,547 downloads)

The downloaded DMG file, double-click it to open the disk image:

To proceed with the installation, double-click Install VMware Fusion — unlike other applications, it is not enough to drag/drop the software into the Applications folder.

Pass the security warning by clicking on Open.

Again, a warning for which just click on Continue.

The installation wizard finally appears. The first screen thanks you — it’s normal after all, but don't sneeze and click on Continue.

Then accept the license agreement by clicking once more on Continue.

Confirm your choice via the button Accept.

You are now asked to enter the serial number. Don't panic!

To take advantage of the evaluation version, enter the serial number provided via the activation email and then simply do Continue. You will have 30 days of testing.

Unless you want to change the installation location, click on Install then wait.

To conclude the installation, click on Close.

Creating a virtual machine for Windows 7

Let’s move on to serious things now: let’s install Windows 7 virtually.

To do this, launch Fusion 3 and then choose Install Windows or other operating system on a new virtual machine.

To install Windows 7, you can do it either:

• With the help of your DVD : in this case, insert the latter now;
• With the help of a ISO file : in this case, click on Continue without disc ;

For this tutorial, we will retain the second method. But, be aware that it is practically the same and that you should not be lost if you opt for the first solution.

On the next screen, check Use the image file of the operating system installation disk then locate it on your hard drive.

When you're ready, do Continue.

VMware then asks you to choose which operating system to install. This is normally recognised automatically, i.e.: Windows 7.

The following screen will allow us to facilitate the installation of Windows. By checking Use easy installation, you will save time by filling in the different fields.

Note that you don‘t have to enter the product key, so you’ll have a time-limited evaluation version.

In fact, a window warns you that Windows requires an activation key. Make Continue without key to have the test version or Enter product key otherwise.

The next screen is particularly interesting and deserves to stop for a moment. It will allow us to choose between an integrated mode or on the contrary isolated from the virtual machine:

1. The first has the advantage of merging the two operating systems (Mac and Windows) by sharing applications and documents in particular;
2. The second, on the other hand, remains a classic mode with a VMware window running Windows on a virtual basis;

Here we arrive at the last stage of the virtual machine creation assistant. Check the information and click on Finish.

An ultimate parameter all the same! Indicate the location where your virtual machine will be saved and then do Save.

A folder having been specially created for this, leave it as it is or opt for a faster external hard drive if you run VMware from a MacBook with a hard drive limited to 5.400 rpm.

Apart from the choice of the Windows version you want to install, the installation will take place without any action required from you.

As announced, you are asked to select the version of Windows. Although it is possible to install and therefore test any version, note that it is your license key that will determine the validity of your copy.

Wait about 30 minutes for installation. Take the opportunity to read 2 or 3 tutorials on Protuts.net!

When installation is complete, log in using the identifiers defined during the easy installation mode. From the first connection, VMware offers you to install VMware Tools: useful tools in particular to improve performance.

Do so. OK to install them.

Congratulations, you now have a fully operational virtual machine integrated with MacOS. In short, the best of the worlds together! And you friends readers, do you practice virtualisation?