Yes, VMware itself offers a free version! VMware Workstation Player (formerly Player Pro) is free for personal, non-commercial use. Limitations include:
But for learning Linux, testing software, or running legacy apps, it’s perfect and uses the same core engine as Workstation Pro.
Because VMware no longer sells version 15, you have only a few legal options: vmware workstation 1556 license key new
When you search for a “new” license key for VMware Workstation 15.5.6, you’re likely finding:
Important legal note: VMware Workstation is proprietary software. Using an unauthorized license key violates the VMware End User License Agreement (EULA) and could result in legal liability for businesses and, in some jurisdictions, individuals. Yes, VMware itself offers a free version
VMware offers a fully functional 30-day trial of Workstation Pro 17. During this period, you can test if it meets your needs—and it can run the same VMs as version 15.5.6.
A new license for Workstation Pro 17 (individual) costs around $199 USD (often discounted to $149). This gives you full access to version 17 and legal downgrade rights to version 15.5.6 if needed (contact VMware support). But for learning Linux, testing software, or running
If you absolutely need VMware Workstation 15.5.6 specifically (e.g., for compatibility with older VMs or training material), here is the clean, legal method: