How to Install VMware Workstation Pro on Windows 10/11

In a world where virtualization is increasingly vital for both personal and professional applications, being able to run multiple operating systems seamlessly on your Windows machine is a game changer. Enter VMware Workstation Pro - a robust piece of software that not only simplifies this virtualization process but also opens a treasure trove of possibilities, especially for Windows 10 and 11 users.

What is VMware Workstation Pro?​

VMware Workstation Pro is a commercial virtualization software that allows users to create and run virtual machines (VMs) on a single physical machine. It allows multiple operating systems to run concurrently, which can be particularly beneficial for developers, testers, and anyone wanting to experiment with new OS features without affecting their primary system.
Historically, VMware Player was aimed at personal use without a license fee, while VMware Workstation Pro offered more features, often requiring payment. Thankfully, recent developments have made VMware Workstation Pro accessible for personal use at no cost, eliminating financial barriers and giving more users the chance to harness its powerful capabilities.

Key Features of VMware Workstation Pro​

Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to highlight some key features of VMware Workstation Pro that make it stand out:

• Advanced Virtualization: Create VMs that can run different operating systems from Windows, Linux, or even older versions of Windows seamlessly.
• Snapshots and Clones: Take snapshots of your VMs and revert back to them when needed. Cloning allows quick duplication of VM setups, saving time and effort.
• USB Passthrough: Connect USB devices directly to your VM, ensuring a smooth operational experience.
• Enhanced Performance: Tailored graphics support, optimizations for multicore processors, and enhanced network capabilities ensure that you can run demanding applications and resources effectively.

System Requirements​

Before you get started, ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for VMware Workstation Pro:

• Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel or AMD 64-bit processor with VT-x or AMD-V support
• Memory: Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
• Disk Space: At least 1.4 GB of free disk space for installation, plus space for virtual machines

Step-by-Step Guide to Install VMware Workstation Pro on Windows 10/11​

Step 1: Create a VMware Account​

1. Go to the VMware registration portal.
2. Enter your email address and follow the prompts to create an account.
3. Verify your email via the link sent to your inbox to complete the registration.

Step 2: Download VMware Workstation Pro​

1. Navigate to the official VMware Workstation product page for personal use.
2. Select the latest version of VMware Workstation Pro and agree to the terms of use.
3. Download the installer file appropriate for your system.

Step 3: Install VMware Workstation Pro​

1. Locate the downloaded installer and double-click it to run.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions, entering your VMware account details when prompted.
3. Once installation is complete, launch VMware Workstation Pro.

Step 4: Download a Windows 11 ISO File​

To create a Windows 11 virtual machine, you'll need an ISO file:

1. Go to Microsoft’s official site or use VMware’s built-in option to download the Windows 11 installation media directly.
2. Save the ISO file to a location that you can easily access.

Step 5: Configure a New Virtual Machine​

1. Open VMware Workstation Pro and select "Create a New Virtual Machine."
2. Choose "Typical (recommended)" for the virtual machine configuration.
3. Select the option to use the Windows 11 ISO file and follow the prompts to configure the VM settings (memory, disk space, etc.). Allocate no more than 40% of total resources to ensure smooth operation.

Step 6: Install Windows 11​

1. Click the "Play" button to start the VM.
2. When prompted to boot from the ISO, follow the installation instructions.
3. Choose "I don’t have a product key" if you’re installing for testing purposes, and proceed with the installation settings.

Step 7: Bypass Microsoft Account Login (Optional)​

To set up Windows 11 without creating a Microsoft account:

1. During the installation process, when prompted, press Shift + F10 to open the command prompt.
2. Type OOBE\\BYPASSNRO and hit Enter. Windows will reboot and allow you to continue the setup offline.

Step 8: Install VMware Tools​

Once Windows 11 is installed:

1. In the VMware menu, go to "Virtual Machine" and select "Install VMware Tools."
2. Follow the prompts to complete the installation, which will enhance graphics performance and integrate better with your host system.

Step 9: Run Windows Update​

After setting up your VM, ensure that it’s secure and up-to-date by running Windows Update from the settings menu.

Real-World Benefits of Using VMware Workstation Pro​

The ability to run virtual machines is not just a luxury; it can significantly enhance productivity across various domains:

• For Developers: Test applications across multiple OS without risking host system stability.
• For IT Professionals: Set up test environments that mirror production-level systems for troubleshooting without additional hardware costs.
• For Casual Users: Experiment with new operating systems, learn how they work, or use specific software available only on Windows without affecting your main system.

Conclusion​

Installing VMware Workstation Pro on your Windows 10 or 11 machine is a straightforward process that opens the door to a myriad of technological possibilities. Whether you seek to enhance your development work, explore new software, or just try out Windows 11 seamlessly, VMware Pro provides a robust solution at no cost for personal use. So roll up your sleeves and dive into the exciting world of virtualization!
For any questions or to share experiences, feel free to join the discussion below. Happy virtualizing!

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Source: H2S Media How to install free VMware Workstation Pro on Windows 11 or 10