Step-by-Step Guide: Set Up a Virtual Machine with VMware Fusion on macOS

Setting up a virtual machine on macOS unlocks new possibilities such as testing software or running different operating systems without impacting your main system. This step-by-step guide will help you install and configure VMware Fusion on macOS quickly and easily.

In this guide, I use Ubuntu Linux as an example, but the same steps apply to other operating systems. Whether you’re new to virtualization or need a clear walkthrough, this guide will get you started. Let’s begin!

Step 1: Install VMware Fusion #

Need help running this command? Read my Homebrew guide.

bash
brew install --cask vmware-fusion

Step 2: Download Linux ISO #

Step 3: Create VM #

  • Open VMware Fusion
  • Go to File > New
  • Select ISO file
  • Choose Boot Firmware: Legacy BIOS
  • Click Customize Settings
    • Rename the VM (e.g., ubuntu-24.04.vmwarevm)
    • Uncheck Share this virtual machine with other users

Step 4: Configure VM #

System

  • Sharing:
    • Name: vm-shared
    • Folder: ~/documents/vm-shared
    • Permissions: read & write
  • Keyboard and mouse:
    • Profile: Mac
  • Processors and memory:
    • Processors: 2
    • Memory: 4096MB
  • Display:
    • Accelerate 3D graphics: check
    • Shared graphics memory: max (recommended value)
    • Use full resolution for retina display: check

Removable devices:

  • Run VM from SSD for best performance.

  • Pre-allocate disk space to prevent fragmentation and performance drops.

  • Turn off unused devices to free up system resources.

  • Hard disk:
    • File name: .vmdk
    • Disk size: 50GB
    • Bus type: SCSI
    • Pre-allocate disk space: check
    • Split into multiple files: check
  • CD/DVD:
    • Choose a disk image: select .iso file
    • Bus type: SATA
  • Sound card:
    • Remove sound card
  • Floppy:
    • Remove sound card

Other

  • Startup disk:
    • Hard disk (SCSI): check
  • Encryption: not encrypted
  • Isolation:
    • Enable drag and drop: check
    • Enable copy and paste: check
  • Advanced:
    • Synchronize time: check
    • Firmware type: legacy BIOS

Step 5: Install Linux #

  • Keyboard layout: English (US)
  • Account:
    • Display name: <user>
    • Account name: <user>
    • Password: ****
    • Computer name: vm
  • Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi: check