My Experiences
I have recently used VMware workstation to create a Windows XP computer that runs my Notes server on my laptop.
This server runs with it's own ip address, and is in effect a separate computer.
I can replicate with the server from my main operating system, and view web pages using a browser etc.
The vmware software is very simple to use and I recommend it.
Once you have created the virtual computer you can then clone it, to quickly create a new one. Very handy if you just want to try something out without messing up a working virtual machine.
I also see this being useful as: I can create different servers and client environments for each customer, ie so for one customer that uses notes 5.0.10 with a notes 6.5 server I can have the exact set up to help solve any problems. On the same laptop I can have more configurations for other customers.
Some larger companies use vmware to run two servers on the same box. This allows the jsp server to fall over and crash the virtual machine without crashing the main machine or the virtual machine that is running lotus notes etc. very neat.
Try for free before you buy
You can register to trial the Workstation software. You get a 30 day licence. The licence actually starts and expires the day you apply for the licence, so don't do what I did and get the licence and then get distracted. I actually applied again and got another licence from them, so they seem flexible on this. NB: You do not need the licence to install the software.
5% Discount Offer
For all Lotus Notes Ninjas registered members and guests:
To get a 5% discount on vmWare software use this code at checkout: VMRC-ADAFOS596
The vmware URL is simply: http://www.vmware.com .
Linux Users may be able to get a further discount after purchase from here: http://www.vmware.com/linuxuser/linuxuser_login.jsp if they are a member of the linux user group: http://www.linux.org .