VMware Debuts Workstation 9, Fusion 5 for Windows 8, Mountain Lion

VMware (NYSE: VMW) has rolled out Workstation 9 and Fusion 5 for Microsoft’s Windows 8 and Apple’s Mountain Lion operating systems, lining up its virtualization support for the new operating systems ahead of VMworld 2012. Here’s the update.

Workstation is VMware’s hypervisor for desktops that enables users to run multiple operating systems (such as Windows and Linux) on the same machine while Fusion allows users to operate Windows, including Windows 8, on Macs. Workstation typically is used by technical professionals to work with virtual machines residing on PCs or private clouds.

“Workstation 9 builds on its broad operating system support, rich user experience, and comprehensive feature set to bring you best-in-class Windows 8 support, all new Web interface, restricted virtual machines and much more,” said Michael Paiko, VMware Workstation group product manager, in a blog post.

VMware said that Workstation 9 was constructed to run on Windows 8 and run Windows 8 virtual machines. The upgrade from the prior version includes graphics improvements, additional password requirements, support for HTML 5 and USB 3.0, and Hyper-V added to the guest operating system list.

The Workstation 9 software is priced at $249 and is available either directly from the vendor’s online store or through channel partners and distributors. Upgrades from 7.x and 8.x are offered at $119 through the same buying options. There is no upgrade option for VMware Workstation versions 1.x – 6.x.

Customers who bought VMware Workstation 8 (either full license or upgrade) between August 1, 2012 and September 30, 2012 can receive a free electronic upgrade under the VMware Workstation 9 Technology Guarantee Program (TGP). Customers with an active support and subscription contract are eligible to upgrade to Workstation 9 for free in the My VMware portal.

Here’s a partial list of Workstation 9 upgrades from the prior version. A complete list can be found here.

Fusion 5 upgrade

Alongside the Workstation 9 release, VMware also rolled out Fusion 5 and Fusion 5 Professional, software that enables users to run Windows on a Mac. This version has been revamped to take advantage of the latest features in Mountain Lion, VMware said.

“While the number of users adopting Macs continue to rise, the business environment is still dominated by Windows,” said Jason Joel, VMware director, personal products.

Fusion 5 key features include:

Both the standard and Professional versions of Fusion 5 are available by download at the vendor’s web site priced at $49.99 and $99.99, respectively. Customers who have purchased VMware Fusion 4 on or after July 25, 2012 are eligible for an electronic upgrade to VMware Fusion 5 at no additional cost.

Volume pricing for corporate users is available from select resellers and the VMware Store.