virtualbox.org

Hello! I'm a Mac OS X Snow Leopard user who is new around here and just discovered the wonderful software known as VirtualBox!

I need to buy another computer and prefer another Intel Mac. I'd like to install VirtualBox for Mac OS X to run Windows 7 in a virtual machine.

However, the computer I buy needs to pass automated, online PC tests for a few legitimate work-at-home jobs I'm considering. Only 1 company has told me that they will allow me to use a Mac for the position but only if it runs Windows by way of Bootcamp. The other companies have advised that I cannot use a Mac natively for the job.

Therefore, if I buy another Mac, install VirtualBox then install Windows 7, will it successfully pass the online PC tests?

Here is an example of what some of the tests check for:

System Information
Operating System Name
Operating System Architecture
Windows Directory
CPU Processor Name
CPU Clock Speed
Total RAM
Available Hard Drive Space

Windows Update Status
Automatic Updates
Service Pack Version

Anti-Virus & Security
Approved Firewall Detected
Approved Anti-Virus Detected
Approved Anti-Spyware Detected
Multiple Anti-Virus Detected
Full Anti-Virus Scan within 30 Days
Full Anti-Spyware Scan within 30 Days


Regards,
LL

That's a hard question to answer. It depends on what they are going to look for/at. I would say that you would need to follow their instructions if you want the job.

In theory it will work, but that's no guarantee that it will work in a real situation. They must have a reason why a VM is not good enough. E.g. the software that performs these checks first checks in the background if it's being run in a VM and will stop if it is.
If you're serious about finding a job, you'd be better off following the advise of the company you're applying at.

Thanks to both of you for your advice and input.

The solution then would be just to buy a PC with Windows.

Much cheaper than getting a Mac.

Not always true depending on model desired and if purchased new or as a refurb.

With me using Macs consistently now for 10+ years, needless to say, I'd prefer to stay on that platform.