I am new to both virtualization and networking. What I would like to have for learning purposes is a virtual network using Server 2008 with Win XP, Win 7, and Win 8 clients (or some combination thereof) on a single computer. Probably due to my fledgling understanding of both virtualization and networking, I have not been able to determine whether or not VMware Player will support this type of architecture.
I see two possible options. The first is to have the clients and server on a single instance of VMware Player, but don't know if multiple VMs can be running at the same time in a single instance and interconnect with each other to form the network. The second is to have multiple instances of VMware Player with unique VMs running in each instance. For the second option, I have been unable to determine whether or not multiple instances of VMware Player can run at the same time and interconnect with each other to form the network.
Will VMware Player support my desired virtual network? Is either of the options I described above reasonable, or is there a preferred configuration? If so, is the learning curve too steep for me to attempt as a novice in both topics?
I am reasonabley sure my computer specs will support the combination (i3/hyperthreading and virtualization enabled, 8GB RAM, 250 GB free space on HDD), but if that is not sufficient, please let me know.
Thanks for your guidance.
