How to Install Windows on Linux

Running Windows through the Linux operating system allows you to run Windows-only programs and games without having to dual boot or make frequent switches between Windows and Linux. The VMware program enables you to install Windows on Linux.

Step1 Log onto the VMware official Web site (see Resources below). Click the “Evaluate Now” button located in the center of the page. After you download the Linux version of VMware, get an evaluation license.

Step2 Unload the packaged VMware files by entering “tar -zxvf Vmware-x.x.x-xxx.tar.gz” in the command prompt.

Step3 Move the VMware files to a new directory. Type "mv vmware-distrib /usr/local/src" into the command prompt. Open the new directory by typing "cd /usr/local/src/vmware-distrib" and then "ls" in the command prompt.

Step4 Run the VMware installation process. Type "./vm-wareinstall.pl" and follow the instructions in the installation guide.

Step5 Change directories to start VMware once installation is complete. Enter "cd /usr/local/vmware" into the command prompt. Then type "./vmware".

Step6 Change the name of your evaluation license to "license." The program will tell you where to relocate the file. Choose "Run the Configuration Wizard" and click “Next.”

Step7 Select the version of Windows to install based on whatever system disk you have. The wizard will ask you where you want install it. Choose a location and click "New Virtual Disk."

Step8 Insert your Windows Disc into your CD drive. Click the “Power On” button located on your virtual machine. The installation guide appears. Follow the instructions to install. Windows will boot automatically when installation is finished.