Run Multiple OS: Virtualization Software Guide

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Published on October 19, 2025

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Virtualization software empowers you to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single Windows 10 or 11 machine. This eliminates the need for separate physical computers for each OS, saving you space, money, and energy. Whether you’re a developer testing applications across different platforms, a security enthusiast isolating environments, or simply curious about exploring other operating systems, virtualization software offers a convenient and efficient solution.

This article explores some of the best virtualization software options available for Windows, highlighting their key features, benefits, and pricing to help you choose the right tool for your needs. We’ll also cover some tips and tricks to optimize your virtualization experience.

What’s the Best Virtualization Software for Windows?

VMware Workstation Player

VMware Workstation Player is a popular choice for both personal and commercial use, offering a user-friendly interface and robust features. It allows you to create and run virtual machines (VMs) with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS (subject to licensing restrictions). You can easily allocate system resources like CPU, RAM, and storage to each VM, ensuring optimal performance.

VMware Workstation Player is particularly useful for testing software in different environments, running legacy applications that are incompatible with your current OS, or creating isolated sandboxes for security purposes. Its drag-and-drop functionality simplifies file sharing between the host and guest operating systems.

Supports a wide range of guest operating systems.
User-friendly interface.
Snapshot feature for easy VM restoration.
Drag-and-drop file sharing.

Pricing: Free for personal, non-commercial use; VMware Workstation 17 Player Commercial License is $179.99.

Oracle VM VirtualBox

VirtualBox is a free and open-source virtualization solution that is widely used by individuals and organizations alike. Despite being free, it offers a comprehensive set of features, including support for various guest operating systems, hardware virtualization, and networking options.

VirtualBox is a great option for users who need a powerful virtualization tool without the cost. It allows you to create and manage multiple VMs, each with its own isolated environment. This is particularly useful for developers who need to test their applications on different platforms or for users who want to experiment with new operating systems without affecting their main system.

Free and open-source.
Supports a wide range of guest operating systems.
Hardware virtualization support.
Networking options.

Pricing: Free

Microsoft Hyper-V

Hyper-V is a virtualization technology built into Windows 10 and 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. It allows you to create and manage virtual machines directly from your Windows environment. Hyper-V offers excellent performance and integration with the Windows ecosystem.

Hyper-V is a powerful option for users who need a robust and reliable virtualization solution. It’s particularly well-suited for server virtualization and development environments. Its integration with Windows makes it easy to manage and monitor virtual machines.

Built into Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
Excellent performance.
Integration with Windows ecosystem.
Supports a wide range of guest operating systems.

Pricing: Included with Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop is a virtualization solution specifically designed for macOS, but can run Windows virtually if you have the correct license. It allows you to run Windows applications seamlessly alongside your macOS applications. Parallels Desktop is known for its ease of use and excellent performance.

Parallels Desktop is a great option for Mac users who need to run Windows applications or virtualize other operating systems. Its seamless integration with macOS makes it easy to switch between operating systems.

Seamless integration with macOS.
Excellent performance.
User-friendly interface.
Supports a wide range of guest operating systems.

Pricing: Starting at $99.99 per year.

Feature Comparison

Feature	VMware Workstation Player	Oracle VM VirtualBox	Microsoft Hyper-V	Parallels Desktop
Price	Free (Personal Use) / $179.99 (Commercial)	Free	Included with Windows Pro/Enterprise/Education	Starting at $99.99/year
Guest OS Support	Wide	Wide	Wide	Wide
Ease of Use	High	Medium	Medium	High
Performance	High	Medium	High	High

Tips for Optimal Virtualization

Allocate sufficient RAM and CPU cores to your virtual machines for optimal performance.
Use solid-state drives (SSDs) for both the host and guest operating systems to improve speed.
Install the guest additions or tools provided by the virtualization software to enhance integration and performance.
Regularly update your virtualization software and guest operating systems to ensure security and stability.

Enhance Your System with Virtualization

Virtualization software provides a flexible and efficient way to run multiple operating systems on your Windows computer. By choosing the right software and optimizing your settings, you can unlock a world of possibilities, from testing new software to running legacy applications.

FAQ

What is virtualization software?

Virtualization software allows you to run multiple operating systems (OS) on a single physical computer, creating virtual machines (VMs) that simulate separate hardware environments.

Is virtualization software safe?

Yes, virtualization software is generally safe, as it isolates the virtual machines from the host operating system, preventing them from interfering with each other.

What are the benefits of using virtualization software?

The benefits include running different OSs on one machine, testing software in isolated environments, and saving resources by eliminating the need for multiple physical computers.

Can I run Windows on a Mac using virtualization software?

Yes, Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion are popular options for running Windows on macOS.

Does virtualization slow down my computer?

Virtualization can impact performance, especially if your computer has limited resources. Allocating sufficient RAM and CPU cores to the virtual machines can help mitigate this.