Download Vmware Workstation Player Info
This review covers what you are actually downloading, the steps involved, the pros and cons of the process, and critical legal/licensing notes.
To avoid wasting time, ensure your host machine meets the minimum requirements before you download VMware Workstation Player.
Q: How big is the VMware Workstation Player download file? A: Approximately 650 MB for Windows; 580 MB for Linux.
Q: Is VMware Workstation Player completely free? A: Yes, for personal, non-commercial, educational, and home use. Businesses must buy Pro.
Q: Can I run macOS on VMware Workstation Player? A: Officially, no—Apple’s license prohibits macOS on non-Apple hardware. Unofficially, with unlocker tools, it is possible, but unsupported.
Q: Does it support DirectX 12 or OpenGL? A: Yes, version 17.x supports DirectX 11 (and partial 12) and OpenGL 4.3 for gaming or 3D apps in the VM.
Q: Why does the download say "VMware Workstation Pro" but I want Player? A: The installer is unified. Run the installer, and you will be given a choice to install either Pro (30-day trial) or Player (free version). Always select Player if you are not paying.
As of 2024, the way you download and use VMware virtualization software has changed significantly. VMware Workstation Player
was discontinued as a standalone product in May 2024. Instead, Broadcom (which now owns VMware) has made the more powerful VMware Workstation Pro free for personal use. Where to Download download vmware workstation player
Because VMware is now part of Broadcom, downloads have moved from the old VMware site Broadcom Support Portal Register an Account : You must create a Broadcom Customer Account to access downloads. Navigate to Downloads
: Search for "VMware Workstation Pro" in the software downloads section. Look for the versions labeled "for Personal Use" to ensure you are selecting the free tier. Accept Terms
: You will likely need to click through a terms and conditions page and provide basic profile information before the "Download" button becomes active. Why the Change? Feature Boost
: Previously, "Player" was a stripped-down version that lacked features like snapshots (saving a state to go back to later) and multiple VM management. Now, personal users get all the "Pro" features for free.
: Broadcom continues to release security patches and updates for Workstation Pro 17.x, ensuring it remains compatible with the latest versions of Windows and Linux. Minimum System Requirements
Before downloading, ensure your hardware can handle virtualization:
: A compatible 64-bit x86/AMD64 processor launched in 2011 or later. Core Speed : At least 1.3 GHz. Virtualization
: You must enable virtualization technology (Intel VT-x or AMD-V) in your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings. Broadcom TechDocs Installation Quick-Steps How to Install VMware Workstation Player in Windows 11 This review covers what you are actually downloading,
As of May 2026, the landscape for downloading VMware virtualization software has changed significantly. Following Broadcom's acquisition of VMware, the standalone "VMware Workstation Player" has been discontinued as a separate product. However, this is actually good news for most users: the more powerful VMware Workstation Pro is now completely free for personal, educational, and commercial use.
This guide explains how to navigate the new Broadcom support portal to download the software that has replaced the traditional Workstation Player. 1. Where to Download the Successor to VMware Player
Because Workstation Player is no longer updated or officially available as a standalone download, you should download VMware Workstation Pro (currently in version 25H2 or latest 17.x mirrors).
Official Source: All downloads are now hosted on the Broadcom Support Portal.
Alternative Mirrors: For those who prefer a simpler download without creating a Broadcom account, reputable mirrors like TechSpot often host the latest installers. 2. Step-by-Step Download Guide (Official Broadcom Portal)
The official process requires a few extra steps due to the new account system:
After installation, select "Use VMware Workstation Pro for free for personal use" — no license key required.
If prompted for a key (older versions):
When you download "VMware Workstation Player," you are bound to the VMware Personal Use License.
What is allowed:
What is NOT allowed:
If you use it at work without a paid Pro license (or commercial Player license), you are violating the EULA. VMware has audited companies in the past.
The trap: The download page says "Free for personal use" in small text. Many users miss this and inadvertently use it commercially.
Cause: Broadcom changes UI frequently. If the link is missing inside the Player, go directly to the Broadcom licensing portal.
Fix: Search Google for "VMware Workstation Player free license for personal use" or go directly to my.vmware.com (which redirects to Broadcom) and register the free product.
Cause: You are trying to install the 64-bit Player on a 32-bit OS (rare today) or virtualization is off. Fix: Reboot into BIOS and enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V.