Running a virtual machine (VM) involves emulating an operating system within another, such as Windows on a MacBook or Windows within Windows. Despite this emulation, a VM is legally treated as a full computer. Therefore, each VM running Windows requires its own valid license, applicable to all Windows versions from 7 to 11. If you don’t have unused license keys, you’ll need to buy new ones.
Commercial software installed on VMs follows similar licensing rules. If a program’s license permits multiple installations, it can cover VMs. However, licenses restricted to one PC require a second license for the VM. Some software may not detect multiple installations, potentially allowing use without immediate consequences, but this can be legally dubious.
Cloud licenses, like Adobe Creative Cloud, allow installation on multiple PCs but activation on only two simultaneously. For example, to use Photoshop in a VM, deactivate the license on the host PC via the Help menu, then install and activate it in the VM. Reversing this process allows switching back to the host PC.
To avoid extra licensing costs, consider free alternatives to paid software, which often suffice for occasional VM use. Alternatively, trial versions of paid software can provide temporary solutions without additional licenses.