Is it possible to have multiple versions of Workstation running on the same host?

[Faize]

I'd like to keep my Linux VMs on Workstation 11, but on the other hand it'd be easier to run my Windows VMs on Workstation 12.5.

[virtualg_uk · Accepted solution]

I do not think that this is supported I'm afraid.

When installing a newer version it will try to upgrade the existing, installed version.

[RDPetruska]

Graham is correct, you can only have one version of Workstation installed on your host computer.

However, you do not have to update the virtual machines' virtual hardware or even the VMware Tools, if you have issues.  Workstation 12 can run Workstation 11 VMs without upgrading them. 

[Faize]

Sadly, it's the 12.x hypervisor itself that's the problem - no matter what you do (or don't do), Unity mode will not work with Linux VMs.

[continuum]

The equation "newer = better" does not apply to Workstation.
Consider "upgrading" to version 11 or 10.
If Unity mode is on top of your wish-list it makes no sense to run a version that does not support it.

[Faize]

That is true, however running Windows 10 on Workstation 11 is requiring increasing amounts of creativity on my (and the community's) part with each major update. Whereas on Workstation 12.5 the Creators Update will simply install/upgrade/run without any fiddling required.

I do worry about what challenges the Fall Creators Update will bring, and whether one of these updates will eventually break compatibility with Workstation 11 in a way that no workaround can fix.