Thevirtual machines(VM) are advanced software that, through technologyvirtualization, allow to emulate an entire computer (PC, client or server) within an isolated virtual environment. This process optimizes and leverages the physical resources of the host system (host), sharing essential hardware components such as hard drive, RAM memory and CPU power.
In this guide we will analyzebest software for virtualizationcurrently on the market, comparing distinctive features, advantages, compatibility and prices, to help you choose the ideal solution according to your personal or professional needs.
VirtualBox (Windows, MacOS, Linux)
VirtualBox, developed by Oracle, is undoubtedly one of the most popular and accessible solutions. It is particularly appreciated by both beginners and developers, dealing with softwareopen source and completely free, equipped with an ecosystem of extremely rich functionality.
Among the main advantages ofOracle VM VirtualBoxstand out:
- High compatibility multiplatform: the program can be installed as a host on Windows, MacOS, Linux and Solaris operating systems.
- Guest Additions and advanced features: Supports additional packages to install on the virtual machine to unlock video acceleration, folder sharing, bidirectional notes and advanced USB peripheral management.
- Flexibility of use: supports the emulation of dozens of operating systemsguest, making it a perfect tool for testing web software, development and daily domestic use.
Parallels Desktop (MacOS)
Parallels Desktopis the leading software for Apple ecosystem users. This powerful solution is specially designed to provide a smooth and native experience in performingWindows on Mac, completely eliminating the discomfort of having to restart the machine through the Boot Camp utility.
The strengths that makeParallelsunique in its kind are:
- Guided performance optimization: The software automatically configures hardware resources (RAM, core CPU) based on the intended use (gaming, corporate productivity, code development) with a simple click.
- Seamless Integration (Coherence Mode): It allows you to hide the Windows interface and launch PC applications directly from the MacOS Dock. The drag-and-drop and file sharing between the two operating systems are instantaneous and transparent.
Unlike other open source alternatives,Parallels is a premium software. The cost for a standard license is usually around99.99€ per yearfor new activations, while upgrades from previous versions provide reduced rates (it is always recommended to check the list on the official website).
VMware (Windows, Linux)
VMware(currently part of the Broadcom group) represents the reference technology standard for virtualization, dominating both the domestic and the corporate sector. For desktop users, the company historically offers two main solutions:
- VMware Workstation Player: an essential and simplified version. Ideal for those who simply need to run a preconfigured virtual machine quickly and stable.
- VMware Workstation Pro: the flagship of the family, dedicated to IT professionals and developers. Offers management of complex virtual networks (VNET), creatingsnapshotmultiples (to restore the system in seconds) and complete cloning of operating systems. Recently, Broadcom has made Workstation Profree for personal use, maintaining paid licenses only for commercial use.
VMwareis universally recognized for the excellent hardware acceleration and for granitic stability, making it the hypervisor for enterprise environments where reliability does not admit compromises.
QEMU (Linux)
QEMU(Quick Emulator) is a powerful open source emulation and virtualization tool, deeply rooted in the Linux landscape. Unlike other software mentioned, QEMU is able to emulate complete hardware architectures (for example, run ARM code on a x86 processor), bypassing the CPU limits of the host system.
The characteristics that makeQEMUthe tool preferred by systemists include:
- Maximum performance via KVM: if paired with the KVM module (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) on Linux, QEMU uses the processor's native hardware virtualization, offering virtually indistinguishable performance from a physical PC.
- User-space and portability execution: can be launched without the need for administrative privileges (root). This makes it the ideal choice to create highly secure test environments (sandboxes) and virtual machines that can be quickly delivered from one server to another.
While requiring greater familiarity with the command line (CLI) than the comfortable graphical interfaces of VirtualBox,QEMUit is totallyfreeand guarantees unparalleled structural flexibility for those who work at low level with operating systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Virtual Machines
What is the difference between an emulator and a virtual machine?
Aemulatorcompletely recreates via software a hardware other than the one in use (for example, allows to play titles of old consoles on a PC). Onevirtual machine, instead, it relies on a hypervisor to directly dialogue with the physical hardware of the host computer, providing significantly higher performance, provided that the systemguestshare the same architecture (e.g. x86/x64 processors) of the host PC.
How much RAM is needed to use a virtual machine?
The amount of memory required depends on the operating system requirements installed in the VM. As a general safety rule, it is strongly advised to assign more than50% of physical RAMtotal computer to the virtual machine. For example, on a PC with 16 GB of RAM, assigning 4 GB or 8 GB to the virtual machine will ensure smoothness to the virtualized system without causing blocks to the main operating system.
Can I get a virus using a virtual machine?
Yes, the operating system within thevirtual machine can contract malware or virusexactly like a physical computer if you navigate on dangerous sites or download infected files. However, the virtual machine operates in an isolated environment (sandbox): unless you have enabled shared folders, direct drag of connected local files or networks, the virus will remain trapped in the virtual machine and will not infect your real computer.
