How to Run Mac OS X in VMware Workstation

If you're looking to run Mac OS X on your computer without having to purchase a separate machine, VMware Workstation is an excellent option. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to install and run Mac OS X 10.6 to 10.11 on VMware Workstation 10/11, Player 6/7, Workstation Pro/Player 12, and ESXi 5/6.

First and foremost, it's essential to ensure that your Intel processor supports hardware virtualization (VT-x) and has been enabled in the BIOS settings. This is a crucial requirement for running Mac OS X on VMware Workstation.

For those who already have access to an existing OS X machine, you can download free versions of OS X 10.9 (Mavericks), 10.10 (Yosemite), or 10.11 (El Capitan) from the App Store. This method works for both physical and virtual machines.

The 'How To' guide we'll be following is based on the work by Donk, Zenith432, and others at InsanelyMac. It's a proven method for installing a vanilla/retail version of OS X 10.6 to 10.11 under VMware Workstation using physical media or an email with a content code for the Mac App Store.

Here are the general steps to install Mac OS X on VMware Workstation:

1. Download and install VMware Workstation from the official website.

2. Create a new virtual machine in VMware Workstation, selecting 'Mac OS X' as the operating system.

3. Configure the virtual machine settings, including processor count, memory allocation, and network settings.

4. Download the desired version of Mac OS X (Snow Leopard, Lion, Mountain Lion, Mavericks, Yosemite, or El Capitan) from the App Store or purchase it from the Apple Store if you don't have access to an existing OS X machine.

5. Create a bootable USB drive using the downloaded installer file and physical media (for Snow Leopard only).

6. Boot your virtual machine from the USB drive and follow the installation process.

For those who are new to running Mac OS X on VMware Workstation, it's essential to note that this method is not officially supported by Apple and may have some limitations compared to running a native Mac OS X system. However, with the right hardware and software setup, you can enjoy a reliable and stable virtual Mac OS X environment.

In conclusion, running Mac OS X on VMware Workstation is a straightforward process that requires minimal technical expertise. By following these steps and ensuring your Intel processor supports hardware virtualization, you'll be able to install and run Mac OS X 10.6 to 10.11 in no time.

How to run mac os x in vmware workstation