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claudiamcse

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Setting up lab on Windows 8.1 machine with i7 processor and 16 GB of RAM

What is the best way to setup lab on Windows 8.1 machine with latest i7 processor, SSD hd, 16Gb of RAM ? What are my best options - virtual box, vmworkstation, install Hyper V on my machine, etc. Please, advise

I am interested in testing Hyper V, Server 2012 DC upgrade from 2k3 to 2012, AppZero migration.
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Avatar of Andrew Hancock (VMware vExpert PRO / EE Fellow/British Beekeeper)
Andrew Hancock (VMware vExpert PRO / EE Fellow/British Beekeeper)
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VMware Workstation costs money, and is a Type 2 Hypervisor.

You already have a Type 1 HYpervisor built in Windows 8.1 Pro! (included for FREE! at no more cost!)
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REIT

I just find VMware more reliable and easier to use than hyper-v. Agreed it costs money but you get what you pay for.

It also depends on what the author feels more comfortable using.
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ASKER

oh. hyper V client sounds awesome!! I just bought this laptop Lenovo Y50 Touch and it it seems that I have to pay an additional $99 to buy 8.1 Pro Pack now....It wont allow me to add this feature otherwise.
You must have purchased it with Home!

You choice, but I would opt for Type 1 Hypervisor Built In!

VMware Workstation is a Type 2, and costs approx the same amount of money!
Actually I found the key for 8.1 Pro and I also have a license for VMWare workstation 8.

For the Hyper V Server that will be running Windows 2012 and 2k3. Which one is better?
For the Hyper V Server that will be running Windows 2012 and 2k3. Which one is better?

That really depends on what you are wanting to evaluate. Both will perform the same

Windows Server 2012 R2 with Hyper-V role, and Windows 8.1 Client Hyper-V.

if you are wanting to evaluate what Organisations use, then use Windows Server 2012 R2, but you will need to install this on your Laptop!
Thank you so much! I am testing with Hyper V client and it is working great!