How to Install VMware Workstation 17 Pro on Windows 10 & 11

In this article, I will tell you how to install VMware Workstation 17 Pro on Windows 10 & 11 PC. Thus, you will now be able to create and run more professional virtual machines on your Host PC.

I will also explain all the stages of creating a virtual system on your computer. In fact, even though the steps I have described here are aimed at beginners, you will be able to use Workstation Pro without any problems.

Installing VMware Workstation 17 Pro

How to Install and Run VMware Workstation Pro on Windows 10

VMware Workstation works well and fast on different operating systems. Also, this strong software gives us high performance. It is a big advantage that it works easily on many platforms.

This great program lets you install different virtual operating systems on your computer. In other words, you can easily run another OS on your PC. Also, if you are a software developer, this tool will help you a lot. So, it lets you test your app on other computers.

If you are a network administrator, VMware Pro plays an active role in facilitating your work. At the same time, it helps us not only in terms of costs.

In short, I am talking about simplifying your workload. For example, if you need to set up a new FTP server, you do not need to buy an additional server or PC. You can create a file server by running a Windows or Linux system of your choice virtually.

Workstation Pro also comes to our aid for more advanced tasks. For example, you can create a virtual Microsoft Server 2025, 2019, 2016, or 2012 machine. So, you can start preparing for Microsoft’s exams on your host PC.

What are the System Requirements for VMware on Windows 10 or 11?

For Workstation Pro 17 to work on Windows 10 or 11, your computer needs to have at least these specifications:

  • A 64-bit processor is recommended. Ideally, it has four or more powerful cores.
  • 16 GB of RAM is enough. But we recommend 32 GB or more for superior performance.
  • 4 GB of disk space is primary. A recommended SSD enhances performance.
  • The Windows operating system provides versatile functionality.
  • A valid license for VMware Workstation is essential. Ensure it’s the latest version for the largest utility.

What’s New in VMware Workstation 17 Pro

VMware happily launched the 17 Pro and Player versions on the exciting date of November 17, 2022. They also released Fusion 13 Pro/Player 17 for happy Mac users.

  • Workstation 17 Pro introduces Virtual Trusted Platform Module 2.0. This enables virtual machines to install Windows 11 or other TPM-requiring OS.
  • Excited developers cleverly made the new OpenGL 4.3 version to get smooth and beautiful images in virtual machines.
  • They added Full and Fast options to encrypt virtual machines.
  • They added WDDM (Windows Display Driver Model) version 1.2 support for guest systems running with Workstation Pro.
  • They impressively included support for exciting new operating systems. These include Microsoft Windows 11 and the highly anticipated MS Server 2022. They’ve also integrated compatibility with the latest RHEL 9, Debian 11.x, and Ubuntu 22.04.
  • They also added a feature where some VMs can start independently when the host computer turns on.

How to Find Out Intel or AMD Virtualization Feature

First, check if the processor in your physical PC (the one you can touch) has a feature called virtualization. You can do this in two ways:

  1. Suppose you have an Intel or AMD-branded processor. You can check the VTx feature by checking the model number on the manufacturer’s web page.
  2. You must learn control over the virtualization feature. You have two options for this task:
    • Intel (R) Processor Identification Utility
    • AMD-V with RVI Hyper-V Compatibility Utility

Use the Intel Processor Identification Utility to check if your Intel CPU supports VTx. Look in the CPU TECHNOLOGIES section to confirm it. You’ll find the Intel Virtualization Technology feature there.

Using AMD software on an Intel CPU results in a stern warning. You will see it when attempting. It will unequivocally state that this tool did not find an AMD processor.

Checking the Intel and AMD Processor Virtualization Feature

How to Install the VMware Virtual Machine Software

You can install VMware Pro on your regular computer or laptop. Or, you can set it up inside a virtual computer. This way, you can smoothly try out version 17 without messing up what you already have.

To install the step-by-step VMware virtual appliance program on Windows PC, just do these steps:

Step 1

After ensuring your CPU can do virtualization, get Workstation Pro. Then, in the section for Windows systems, click Download Now.

Download Workstation for Windows Computers

Step 2

After efficiently downloading the setup file, right-click and select Run as administrator.

Running Setup File as Administrator on Windows 10

Step 3

Please wait while it gets the necessary files to install the newest version of VMware Pro.

Setup Prepares Files for Installation

Step 4

To keep installing Workstation Pro, click the Next button in the Setup window.

Setup Wizard

Step 5

You must agree to the license agreement to ensure a hassle-free Workstation software setup. After accepting it, hit the Next button in the End-User License Agreement window.

End-User License Agreement

Step 6

Installing the Enhanced Keyboard Driver when using a virtual machine in the program is a good idea. Check the confirm box and click Next to install the advanced option.

Advanced Keyboard Driver

Step 7

Ensure a smooth user experience by enabling automatic updates at startup. Also, opt to take part in the customer experience program willingly.

In the User Experience Settings window, easily enable product updates. Also, opt for participation in the Improvement Program.

Participating in the VMware Customer Experience Program

Step 8

To put shortcuts on your Windows desktop and start the menu, check both options in the Shortcuts window and click the Next button.

Creating Shortcuts to Desktop and Start Menu for the VM

Step 9

Next, click the Install button to build the virtual OS program on Windows 11 & 10.

Starting the Installation of the Virtual Machine Program

Step 10

Wait as the program copies the files it needs onto your system for Workstation Pro and sets up the system settings.

Installing Workstation Pro

Step 11

Once you’ve completed the intricate steps, click the Finish button precisely.

Closing the Setup Wizard Window After Installation

Step 12

Click the Yes button to renew your computer for the beneficial changes.

Restarting the Computer After VM Setup

How to Activate VMware Workstation Trial

Step 1

Once the PC restarts, promptly double-click the VMware shortcut to open it.

If you have purchased VMware software, enter the license key in the space provided below. Or, if you want to enjoy a free trial for 30 days, select the option and continue.

Activating the Trial Version of the Program

Step 2

This window informs you that you can buy the program from the Online Store after the trial period. Thus, click Finish to close the thank you window after activating the evaluation version of the app.

Program's Online Store Purchase Notice

Step 3

Once you have successfully installed VMware Pro, you can find its edition by going to Help and selecting About.

WORKSTATION 17 PRO

How to Uninstall VMware Workstation on Windows 10

If you decide to uninstall VMware software from your PC, please know that it will remove all VMs and configurations you have installed. If you only want to remove the app for a specific reason, back up your installed virtual OSs beforehand.

There are two simple ways to remove Workstation:

  1. You can uninstall it using Add and Remove Programs on Windows 11 & 10.
  2. You can uninstall it via the Setup file using the Command Prompt.

Step 1

For a fast view, press Windows Key + R. Open Run, execute control appwiz.cpl for Programs.

control appwiz.cpl

control appwiz.cpl

Step 2

Open the Setup Wizard by double-clicking on Workstation in the program removal window, and click Next in this step.

Setup Wizard Window

Step 3

You can now remove Workstation Pro from your system by clicking the Remove button. In this window, you can also repair VMware errors.

NOTE: Another way to uninstall virtual machine software is to use the Command Prompt. You must have the setup file with the .exe extension that you downloaded to your computer to do this. Open CMD or PowerShell from the file’s location and execute the command below in the terminal to start the wizard.

VMware-workstation-full-17.0.0-20800274.exe /clean

Workstation Removal

Step 4

The default selection includes the Product Configuration and Product License Information options. Click Next to confirm the deletion of these configuration settings.

Removing VM Software on CMD

Step 5

Click the Remove button in the Ready to Remove window to start the removal process.

Preparing Setup for Uninstall

Step 6

After you install VMware, your OS gets config files and network drivers. It’s important to delete these files as part of the process. After deleting them, restart your PC to make the changes work correctly.

Setup Wizard Window with CMD

Video

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About VMware Workstation 17

  1. Is VMware Workstation compatible with Windows 10 or 11?
This software is a seamless fit for Windows 10 and 11, harmonizing their performance for a fluid, hassle-free experience.
  1. Is VMware Workstation 17 free?
Workstation Pro 17 comes with a definite price tag. You’ll need to invest in a reliable license. But the remarkable capabilities it brings to the table make it a worthy and valuable investment.
  1. Is VMware for Windows 10 or 11 free?
Workstation Pro 17 requires a financial investment. But, a complimentary version is the Player by VMware. It offers limited features but is suitable for straightforward virtual device tasks.

Installing VMware Old Versions

Workstation Versions – Video & Slide Links
Workstation VersionYouTube VideoSlide
12 ProWatchView
14 ProWatchView
15 ProWatchView
16 ProWatchView
17 Pro (NEW)Watch

Conclusion

In summary, by installing VMware Workstation 17 Pro on a Windows PC, you will gain many advantages. Plus, you can run three or even five operating systems at the same time without any problems. Of course, this varies depending on the hardware power of your host PC.

So, you can manage different computer setups easily on your PC. Also, you can test apps or try various kinds of networks.

In short, you can do all these jobs easily with VMware Workstation Pro. Also, it is very flexible and helps us manage virtual machines without trouble.

One Comment

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *