Download Vmware Workstation Player Today
Due to recent changes in Broadcom's website (the company that acquired VMware), finding the download link can sometimes be tricky. Here is the direct way to get it:
How to Download and Install VMware Workstation Player (2026 Update)
In the world of virtualization, VMware Workstation Player has long been the gold standard for running secondary operating systems on a single PC. However, since Broadcom's acquisition of VMware , the download process has changed significantly.
This guide provides the most current steps to get you up and running with VMware's powerful virtualization technology. ⚠️ Important Update: Player vs. Pro
, VMware Workstation Player was discontinued as a standalone product. Instead, VMware Workstation Pro completely free for personal and educational use
. When you download and install the latest Workstation Pro, it includes all the features of Player and more. Phase 1: System Requirements
Before downloading, ensure your host machine meets these minimum specs:
64-bit x86/AMD64 (2011 or newer) with a core speed of 1.3 GHz or faster. 2 GB minimum (4 GB or more recommended).
Sufficient disk space for the host application and your future virtual machines (VMs). Phase 2: The Official Download Process Broadcom now manages all VMware downloads through their Customer Support Portal download vmware workstation player
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
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: Due to recent changes in Broadcom's website (the
: 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
Getting VMware Workstation Player (now often referred to under the broader VMware Desktop Hypervisor umbrella) set up on your machine is a great way to run multiple operating systems without needing extra hardware.
As of late 2024, significant changes occurred following Broadcom's acquisition of VMware: VMware Workstation Pro is now free for personal, educational, and even commercial use. While the "Player" version still exists for basic single-VM needs, many users now opt for the full Pro version since it is free and includes advanced features like snapshots. How to Download & Install (Latest Process)
The download process now goes through the Broadcom Support Portal rather than the old VMware site.
This review covers what you are actually downloading, the steps involved, the pros and cons of the process, and critical legal/licensing notes.
VMware downloads are now hosted by Broadcom. You will likely need to create a free Broadcom Support Portal account to access the download files.
| Problem | Solution |
|---------|----------|
| Account creation fails | Use a personal Gmail/Outlook; work emails sometimes blocked. |
| Download link loops back to login | Clear cookies or try incognito mode. |
| "Workstation Player" not found | Search for "Workstation 17 Player for Personal Use" (not Pro). |
| Linux version won't install kernel modules | Install linux-headers-$(uname -r) and build-essential first. | VMware downloads are now hosted by Broadcom
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.
Once the .exe file is downloaded:
Before hitting that download button, ensure your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements. Virtualization is resource-intensive, so the better your hardware, the smoother the experience.