One of the bigger names in virtualisation — VMware — has been strangely silent on the subject of Macintosh support, but is silent no more — it has announced support for the Mac with a forthcoming beta release.
Virtualisation enables computers like Intel-based Macs to support different operating systems without rebooting. It’s the same concept that powers Parallels Desktop, CodeWeavers’ CrossOver and TransGaming’s gaming-focused Cider.
VMware boasts more than four million users worldwide — the company has distinguished itself with a strong focus on bringing virtual machine technology to enterprise computers and servers. More recently it’s expanded its reach to appeal to virtual machine neophytes as well.
According to the scant information on VMware’s website, its Mac offering provides drag-and-drop support and doesn’t require rebooting.
Virtual machines created using the new product can run virtual machines created on other platforms, too.
The software can run “virtual appliances” that offer support for security, network applications, databases, communications and business applications. The VMware Technology Network (VMTN) offers downloadable packages — the virtual appliances — all designed to run with VMware’s virtualisation software.