Why use a virtual machine?

[Jesse Aiton]

Hi Steven,

A virtual system is like a guest operating system that borrows
resources (CPU, memory, storage) from the host operating system.   If
there is a special program to run your .bin file and you have
installed it in your virtual machine, as long your sound and video is
working in the virtual machine, then it should work.

Yes,  you have to purchase a copy of Windows even if it will be a
virtual machine.  I don't blame you for not wanting to support them
financially - they are horrible.

One of the biggest advantages of using virtualization in comparison to
a dual boot setup, is that you can access both host and guest
operating systems simultaneously, instead of having to reboot to
switch back and forth.

I'm not sure what program runs your .bin file, but if its a Windows
program, you may be able to install it on Linux with Wine.
http://www.winehq.org
The paid version of Wine may be worth looking at as well.
http://www.codeweavers.com/products/cxlinux/

Also, I have a forum for Kubuntu users that I would like to invite
everyone too:  http://kubuntuway.net

Thanks,

Jesse




On Sat, Nov 29, 2008 at 3:41 PM, Steven Vollom
<stevenvollom at sbcglobal.net> wrote:
> I have been reading for a couple of hours trying to understand the
> function of a virtual machine, and how to make it work.  I even
> installed VirtualBox, but can't get it working yet.
>
> When you operate using a virtual system, does it function the same as
> using the program, like Win XP?
> When operating it, can you make things function, like play a .bin movie
> that won't play in Hardy?
> Do you have to purchase a copy of Windows XP to install in the
> VirtualMachine or how do you get it in your computer?  I am not willing
> to pay any more money to Microsoft; I have been abused by them.
> Nonetheless, there are things that I cannot do, because of not having XP
> anymore.
>
> These questions are on the front side of my interest in Virtual Box.
> None are answered in my first two hours of study.  At least they were
> not explained in a way I could understand.  It seems like the answers I
> want are  assumed by the author.  I am even reading about advanced
> benefits and alternative uses, and I still do not know if what I want is
> available.
>
> There are so many ways I am lacking in my understanding of the operation
> of a Linux system, I don't want to waste my study time on a subject that
> doesn't serve a need.  It looks like I could read for days without my
> question being addressed, if ever.
>
> Additionally, if you are required to purchase a copy of XP to install
> into the virtual machine, what is the advantage of that over a dual boot
> system that has XP as an alternate boot?  Before I will ever purchase
> another Microsoft product, I will go without, rather than purchase from
> them.  TIA
>
> Steven
>
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