VMware Workstation 7 released with full Windows 7 support

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VMware has announced the latest version it's flagship virtualization software - VMware Workstation 7 which is packed full of new features which are huge - including full 3D graphics support for virtual machines. VMware workstation is compatible with over 20 operating systems out of the box, and can run many other operating systems unofficially.

As previously mentioned, the new VMware workstation comes with full 3D graphics support for guest operating systems - meaning that if your computer can't play a game, but has the resources to run a virtual operating system well, you can run an earlier version of Windows (or Linux) to play it.

VMware also announced that VMware workstation 7 is "...optimized for maximum performance when running on 32-bit and 64-bit Windows 7 PCs" and can now run virtual machines "with up to four virtual CPUs and 32GB of RAM dedicated to each virtual machine."

The new release also finally supports Aero - which is well coincided with the release of Windows 7. VMware is even claiming that their virtualization is "Better than Windows XP Mode, you can run Windows XP with 3D graphics, faster performance, and tighter integration with Unity". It is also compatible with Windows 7 features on the host machine, allowing the user to use Flip 3D and Aero Peek to view their virtual machines.

Other major new features of Workstation 7 include AutoProtect - a tool which automatically saves states of virtual machines, printing without printer drivers, 256-bit encryption of virtual machines and more. A 30-day trial version can be obtained from VMware's website.

Thanks to forum user rakeshishere for the screenshots.

#1 AnakinDev on 02 Nov 2009 - 11:57

Enable Aero in Windows 7 VMware Workstation 7 - video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWgqeiCvn4A

#2 devHead on 02 Nov 2009 - 11:58

That is excellent news; I've been using VirtualBox, but they don't support the Additions in OSes earlier than Windows 2000. But I would love to play my old Descent 2! Perhaps now, that dream will become a reality.

Last edited by devHead on 02 Nov 2009 - 12:07

#3 +Chicane-UK on 02 Nov 2009 - 12:01

Was on the beta programme for this (got an invite once I got my VCP qualification) and it's been working great on Windows 7

Highly reccommended!

#4 Pabs(Sco) on 02 Nov 2009 - 12:48

Got my upgrade on order

(2 replies) #5 Klownicle on 02 Nov 2009 - 12:56

My question is how "FULL" 3d are we talking about. Legacy PC games?

#5.1 Ledgem on 02 Nov 2009 - 13:21

I'm guessing that Workstation's graphics support is the same as VMware Fusion's. If that's the case, it supports DirectX 9.0c with shader model 3 and OpenGL 2.1.

#5.2 Skyfrog on 02 Nov 2009 - 18:13

What if my old game requires 3dfx Glide support, what then VMware?

/jk

(1 reply) #6 Thunderbuck on 02 Nov 2009 - 13:08

My big question: does the new VMware Workstation incorporate the same integration features I get for free with XP Mode? Or do I pay (even) more for them?

And the pricing sucks. I MIGHT buy Workstation if they'd consider a "personal" license for, say, $80US, but at $189, it's not quite enough value for me.

#6.1 Grex on 02 Nov 2009 - 14:18

I agree on the pricing.

But have been waiting this for awhile. So i will probably get it anyway.

#7 Ken Mickeletto on 02 Nov 2009 - 14:47

I just question the statement, "it's flagship virtualization software - VMware Workstation 7". While I agree Workstation is a great product, I don't think it pays the bills as far as VMware is concerned. I really think that vSphere/ESX product line would be more in line with their flagship product. IMHO.

(2 replies) #8 s3n4te on 02 Nov 2009 - 15:24

Why do you need this when you have free XP Mode?

Oh, you need to buy this this to run free Linux

. How ironic.

#8.1 C_Guy on 02 Nov 2009 - 16:33

How is it ironic? VMWare isn't free but Linux is.

Not exactly rocket science.

#8.2 StarLion on 03 Nov 2009 - 10:24

Actually, it's possible to install Linux in the virtualization software included with XP mode...it's just a bit tricky.

(2 replies) #9 java2beans on 02 Nov 2009 - 15:24

Does any one know if you can run 64 bit OS on VMware? Cause I tried to install 64bit OS on MS VirtualPC and it doesn't work.

#9.1 lars77 on 02 Nov 2009 - 15:35

Yup

#9.2 Spark99 on 03 Nov 2009 - 03:14

...as long as you have a 64-bit Processor with VT Support

(3 replies) #10 Tsusai on 02 Nov 2009 - 18:41

What I kinda want to see, are Win 7 performance scores Host VS Guest compared.

#10.1 TokiToki on 03 Nov 2009 - 19:43

E8400, 8GB RAM Host, 4GB RAM Guest, NV GTS 250 graphics card.

#10.2 TokiToki on 03 Nov 2009 - 19:44

Forgot to mention, both Host and Guest are running Win7 x64.

#10.3 aSMiLoN on 04 Nov 2009 - 11:34

How the heck is hard disk transfer rate greater in the VMware machine?

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