VMware Desktop Hypervisor products Fusion and Workstation are used by millions of people every day to run virtual machines on their Windows, Linux and Mac computers. They give users the ability to quickly and easily build “local virtual” environments to install other operating systems, learn about technology, build and test software, complex systems, browsers, apps, games, and more.
For many in our community, Workstation and Fusion are the first VMware products that they’ve ever used, and it’s an important tool for understanding Virtualization as well as the fundamentals of vSphere. Going beyond that, commercial organizations get value from VMware Desktop Hypervisor apps for a number of reasons including development and testing of apps and systems and interacting with their vSphere environments.
As we complete the integration of Fusion and Workstation into Broadcom, I wanted to share with the community some changes to our product lineup and how we deliver them to our community.
We’ve been diligently working on important changes to our product lineup to provide ongoing, lasting value to our customers and to the VMware community at large, and we’re thrilled to be able to share with our community the next steps in our plan for the future of VMware Desktop Hypervisor apps.
Our goal with these changes has been to simplify how we bring VMware Desktop Hypervisor apps to market, while maintaining our support of the broader community of VMware Workstation and Fusion users of both free and paid products. So let’s dig into this simplification and more importantly, what this means to you as customers.
https://blogs.vmware.com/workstation/2024/05/vmware-workstation-pro-now-available-free-for-personal-use.html
VMware Workstation Pro vs VMware Fusion Pro: Features, Benefits, and Comparisons
VMware Workstation Pro vs VMware Fusion Pro: Features, Benefits, and Comparisons
Introduction
Choosing the right virtualization software is crucial for professionals who need to run multiple operating systems on their machine. Among the top options, VMware Workstation Pro and VMware Fusion Pro stand out. Both offer powerful virtualization solutions, but they cater to slightly different user needs. This article explores the key differences, features, and benefits of both platforms, helping you make an informed decision.
What is VMware Workstation Pro?
VMware Workstation Pro is a leading desktop hypervisor that allows users to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single machine. It is particularly popular with developers, testers, and IT professionals who need an environment that supports advanced features and extensive OS compatibility.
What is VMware Fusion Pro?
VMware Fusion Pro is VMware’s equivalent hypervisor for macOS users, offering the same high-performance virtualization but with an added focus on Apple’s ecosystem. Fusion Pro integrates smoothly with macOS, making it the go-to option for users of Apple devices who require virtual machines (VMs).
Who Should Use VMware Workstation Pro?
VMware Workstation Pro is tailored for power users who work on Windows or Linux. It’s especially useful for IT administrators, software testers, and developers who require high levels of customization, advanced networking, and support for complex virtual environments.
Who Should Use VMware Fusion Pro?
VMware Fusion Pro is perfect for macOS users who need to run Windows, Linux, or other operating systems on their Macs. It’s great for developers who build cross-platform applications, as well as users who want seamless integration between their macOS and other operating systems.
Features of VMware Workstation Pro
Virtual Machine Management
VMware Workstation Pro allows users to run several VMs simultaneously, each with its own operating system. It supports a wide range of OS types, including Windows, Linux, and Unix variants. This flexibility is key for those who need to test and develop across different environments.
Networking Capabilities
Workstation Pro offers robust networking features, allowing users to create complex virtual networks. You can simulate real-world network conditions, making it ideal for testing and configuring network-related applications.
Security Features
With Workstation Pro, users get access to features like secure boot, TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for encryption, and snapshots that allow quick VM rollbacks. These tools help in creating secure and isolated environments for testing.
Features of VMware Fusion Pro
Virtual Machine Management
Just like Workstation Pro, Fusion Pro allows for the running of multiple VMs, but with additional macOS integration. It supports Windows, Linux, and other operating systems, all while ensuring compatibility with macOS’s architecture.
Integration with macOS
A standout feature of Fusion Pro is its seamless integration with macOS. Users can run Windows applications like native macOS apps, thanks to Unity Mode, which allows for near-transparent operations between systems.
Performance Enhancements
VMware Fusion Pro offers advanced performance features that are optimized for Mac hardware, including support for Apple’s Retina displays and enhanced graphics performance through DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.1.
Comparing VMware Workstation Pro and VMware Fusion Pro
Cross-Platform Capabilities
Both Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro support running different operating systems, but Fusion Pro stands out in its macOS integration. For cross-platform developers, Fusion Pro offers an edge in environments where macOS applications are required alongside Windows or Linux.
User Interface and Usability
Fusion Pro has a more intuitive interface tailored for macOS users, making it easier for Apple enthusiasts to navigate. Workstation Pro, while powerful, is built with more technical users in mind, offering more complex settings but requiring a steeper learning curve.
Performance Differences
Both platforms are optimized for their respective operating systems. Fusion Pro takes advantage of macOS’s hardware, whereas Workstation Pro is optimized for Windows and Linux environments. Performance comparisons often come down to the hardware capabilities of the host machine and the OS being used.
Benefits of VMware Workstation Pro
Advanced Networking
With Workstation Pro, users can create detailed network configurations, including NAT, bridged, and host-only networking, making it a strong tool for developers working with networked applications.
High Compatibility with Various Operating Systems
Workstation Pro supports a broad range of operating systems, making it ideal for developers who need to work with many different environments simultaneously.
Benefits of VMware Fusion Pro
Seamless macOS Integration
Fusion Pro’s macOS integration is its biggest strength. Users can easily switch between macOS and other OS environments, and even run Windows apps like native macOS apps.
Enhanced User Experience for Apple Devices
For users familiar with macOS, Fusion Pro offers a much more intuitive and user-friendly experience, ensuring that virtualized environments feel like a natural extension of the macOS experience.
Use Cases for VMware Workstation Pro
Professional Developers and Testers
Developers who require advanced networking, multiple operating systems, and high-performance environments will find Workstation Pro invaluable.
IT Administrators
IT professionals who need to create secure, isolated environments for testing software and networks will benefit greatly from Workstation Pro’s comprehensive features.
Use Cases for VMware Fusion Pro
Apple Device Enthusiasts
For users who are deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem but need to run Windows or Linux applications, Fusion Pro offers the perfect balance of performance and ease of use.
Cross-Platform Developers
Fusion Pro is ideal for developers building cross-platform applications who need to test their software across different operating systems without leaving macOS.
Pricing Comparison
Licensing for VMware Workstation Pro
Workstation Pro offers flexible licensing options that cater to individuals, businesses, and educational institutions, with a one-time purchase model.
Licensing for VMware Fusion Pro
Fusion Pro’s licensing is similar, but pricing can vary slightly depending on macOS integration features and specific user requirements.
Customer Support and Updates
Support for Workstation Pro
VMware provides comprehensive customer support for Workstation Pro, including documentation, knowledge bases, and premium support packages.
Support for Fusion Pro
Fusion Pro users have access to similar support structures, but with additional resources tailored to macOS users, ensuring issues are addressed in a Mac-specific context.
Download
Pro Apps are now Free for Personal Use and Licensed for Commercial Use
The most exciting part is that Fusion Pro and Workstation Pro will now have two license models. We now provide a Free Personal Use or a Paid Commercial Use subscription for our Pro apps. Users will decide based on their use case whether a commercial subscription is required.
This means that everyday users who want a virtual lab on their Mac, Windows or Linux computer can do so for free simply by registering and downloading the bits from the new download portal located at support.broadcom.com
VMware Fusion Pro Download VMware Workstation Pro Download
Conclusion
When deciding between VMware Workstation Pro and VMware Fusion Pro, it ultimately comes down to your operating system and use case. Workstation Pro is the best choice for Windows and Linux users who need advanced networking and virtualization capabilities, while Fusion Pro is a perfect fit for macOS users who want to run other operating systems seamlessly. Both are excellent tools for professionals, but understanding your platform and specific needs will help you choose the best solution.
FAQs
- Can I run macOS on VMware Workstation Pro? No, macOS is only officially supported on VMware Fusion Pro, designed specifically for macOS environments.
- Does VMware Fusion Pro support Windows 11? Yes, VMware Fusion Pro supports Windows 11 and other versions of Windows.
- Which is better for gaming, VMware Workstation Pro or Fusion Pro? Both platforms offer good performance for casual gaming, but serious gamers may experience better results with bare-metal solutions.
- Is VMware Fusion Pro available for Windows? No, Fusion Pro is designed exclusively for macOS, whereas Workstation Pro is for Windows and Linux.
- Can I get technical support for both platforms? Yes, VMware offers extensive support options for both Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro.
