Can I run a 64-bit VMware image on a 32-bit machine?

Question

Can I run a 64-bit VMware image on a 32-bit machine?

I've googled this, but there doesn't seem to be a conclusive answer.

I know that it would have to be completely emulated and would run like a dog - but slow performance isn't necessarily an issue as I'm just interested in testing some of my background services code on 64-bit platforms.

Answer 1

The easiest way to check your workstation is to download the VMware Processor Check for 64-Bit Compatibility tool from the VMware website.

You can't run a 64-bit VM session on a 32-bit processor. However, you can run a 64-bit VM session if you have a 64-bit processor but have installed a 32-bit host OS and your processor supports the right extensions. The tool linked above will tell you if yours does.