Understanding how to install and configure VMware on a new MacOS is critical for any tech-savvy individual. This comprehensive guide aims to help you navigate this process with ease.
“Technology is nothing. What’s important is that you have faith in people, that they’re basically good and smart, and if you give them tools, they’ll do wonderful things with them.” – Steve Jobs
1. Introduction
Setting up VMware on a new MacOS allows you to run a variety of operating systems simultaneously on your Mac. This feature is beneficial for developers, testers, and power users who need to access different operating systems for various tasks.
2. Prerequisites
Before initiating the installation process, make sure your MacOS machine is powered on and the guest operating system is running.
Verify the status of your machine:
- Power on the machine
- Ensure the guest operating system is operating
3. Installing VMware Fusion
VMware Fusion is the software you’ll need to create virtual machines on your Mac.
3.1 Purchasing VMware Fusion
You can purchase VMware Fusion from VMware’s official website or an alternative company. Download the software to your Mac over your network connection.
3.2 Initiating the Installation Process
Once the software is downloaded, locate the *.dmg icon and double-click it to open. Then, double-click the “Install VMware Fusion” option.
3.3 Following the Installation Prompts
The installation process is straightforward, and the software guides you through each step. When you encounter warnings or prompts, read them carefully and click “Continue” or “Open” as necessary.
4. Configuring VMware Fusion
After installing VMware Fusion, you need to configure it to your needs.
4.1 Entering the Serial Number
You’ll be asked to enter the serial number provided to you when you purchased the VMware Fusion software. Enter the serial number, then click “Continue”.
4.2 Selecting a Destination
Choose the volume where you want to install VMware Fusion. This is usually your Macintosh HD. Once you’ve made your selection, click “Continue”.
4.3 Finalizing the Installation
After entering your serial number and selecting a destination, click “Install”. If prompted, enter your password to authorize the software installation.
4.4 Installation Completion
Once the installation is successfully completed, click “Close”.
5. Installing VMware Tools
VMware Tools is a set of utilities that enhance the performance of the virtual machine’s guest operating system and improve management of the virtual machine.
5.1 Mounting the VMware Tools Virtual Disk
To install VMware Tools, you need to mount and open the VMware Tools virtual disk on the guest operating system. The commands to do this vary depending on the VMware product you’re using.
5.2 Operating the Installer Assistant
Open “Install VMware Tools” on the VMware Tools virtual disk, follow the prompts in the installer assistant, and click “OK”.
6. Installing Microsoft Windows via VMware Fusion
With VMware Fusion installed, you can now install Microsoft Windows on your virtual machine.
6.1 Preparing for Installation
Ensure you have a copy of Microsoft Windows 7 and Microsoft Office from the VUIT software store. Launch VMware Fusion on your Mac and follow the subsequent steps to load Microsoft Windows 7.
6.2 Creating a New Virtual Machine
In the Welcome window, click “Create Virtual Machine”. A “New Virtual Machine Assistant” window appears.
6.3 Installing the Operating System
Insert your Microsoft Windows 7 CD or DVD into your CD/DVD drive. On the “Create New Virtual Machine” screen, verify the “Install this operating system” radio button is selected and click “Continue”.
6.4 Completing the Windows Easy Install
Ensure that the “Use Easy Install” checkbox is selected. Verify that the “Account Name” field contents are accurate. Input and confirm a password for the Windows Administrator account. Input the Windows Product Key from your Microsoft Windows 7 installation media, then click “Continue”.
6.5 Configuring Sharing Settings
Select the appropriate radio button under the “Sharing” screen. If unsure, accept the default which is “Share home folder”. Click “Continue”.
6.6 Finalizing the Installation
On the “Finish” screen, verify the information is correct. If needed, select “Customize Settings” and modify as appropriate. Verify that the “Always open this virtual machine when VMware Fusion starts” box is checked. Click “Finish”.
7. Installing VMware Tools in the Virtual Machine
After installing Windows, you need to install VMware Tools in the virtual machine for enhanced performance and usability.
7.1 Initiating VMware Tools Installation
Select the “Virtual Machine” menu. Click ‘Install VMware Tools.’ In the pop-up window, click “Install”.
7.2 Running the VMware Tools Installer
In the AutoPlay window, click “Run setup.exe”. If prompted for permission, click “Continue”. When the VMware Tools installation window appears, click “Next”.
7.3 Completing the VMware Tools Installation
On the “Setup Type” screen verify that “Typical” is selected, and click “Next”. On the “Ready to Install the Program” screen, click “Install”. When the installation is complete, click “Finish”.
8. Configuring the Virtual Machine
After installing VMware Tools, you may need to configure your virtual machine further. This includes updating your Microsoft Windows environment, installing anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and setting up automatic updates.
9. Installing Microsoft Office via VMware Fusion
Once you have configured your virtual machine, you can install Microsoft Office. Follow the same steps as installing Windows 7, but instead insert your Microsoft Office CD/DVD into the CD/DVD drive.
10. Conclusion
Setting up VMware on a new MacOS may seem daunting at first, but with this guide, you should be able to navigate through the process without any hiccups. Whether you’re a developer, tester, or power user, having this skill under your belt will definitely enhance your productivity and efficiency.
Remember, technology is a tool that empowers us to do wonderful things. Embrace it, and let it help you do more of what you love.
Virtual Machines running on MacOS via VMware Fusion