VMware Fusion allows Intel-based Macs to run operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, NetWare, BSD, or Solaris on virtual machines, along with their Mac OS X operating system. This is useful for using different software pieces based on different operating system platforms on the same computer. The Unity feature removes the windows start menu and desktop, focusing the window on just the application needed, and enabling a seamless and streamlines experience. Fusion is also useful for testing out various operating systems and packages in a non-destructive environment. Virtual machines, once created, can be backed up, restored, versioned and transported to other computers. This means you can reconfigure the software without the fear of corruption or data loss. You can also share virtual machines to be imported into other computers’ installation of Fusion, sharing an exact replica of your configuration, software, and data.
Because Fusion runs on top of Mac OS X, performance is decreased significantly from a native “bare metal” installation of the original operating system. Fusion can also be an excellent substitute for running Boot Camp, a software package that allows a user to reboot into a native Windows environment. UNCC ITS is ending support for BootCamp in 2015, so software packages like VM Fusion are best to use when Windows is needed on a Mac.
For more information visit VMWare Fusion.