How to Install VMware Workstation on Windows and Linux

VMware Workstation is one of the most powerful virtualization tools available, allowing users to run multiple operating systems on a single machine. Whether you are a developer, IT professional, or a tech enthusiast, VMware Workstation is an essential tool for testing and running different OS environments. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step installation process for both Windows and Linux operating systems.

System Requirements for VMware Workstation

Before installing VMware Workstation, ensure your system meets the minimum requirements:

• Processor: 64-bit x86 CPU with at least 1.3 GHz speed (Recommended: Intel Core i5 or higher)
• RAM: Minimum 2 GB (Recommended: 8 GB or more)
• Storage: Minimum 1.5 GB free disk space
• Operating System: Windows 10/11, or Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian
• Additional Requirements: Enable virtualization technology (VT-x or AMD-V) in BIOS

How to Install VMware Workstation on Windows

Step 1: Download VMware Workstation

1. Open a web browser and visit the official VMware website: https://www.vmware.com/products/workstation-pro.html
2. Click on Download Now and choose the Windows version.
3. Save the installation file (e.g., VMware-workstation.exe).

Step 2: Install VMware Workstation

1. Navigate to the downloaded file and double-click it to start the installation.
2. Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control (UAC).
3. The VMware Setup Wizard will launch. Click Next to proceed.
4. Read and accept the End User License Agreement (EULA).
5. Choose the installation location (default is recommended) and click Next.
6. Select whether you want shortcuts on the desktop or the Start menu.
7. Click Install and wait for the process to complete.
8. Once installed, click Finish and restart your system if required.

Step 3: Launch and Activate VMware Workstation

1. Open VMware Workstation from the Start menu or desktop shortcut.
2. If prompted, enter a valid license key or choose the trial version.
3. Once activated, you can start creating virtual machines.

How to Install VMware Workstation on Linux

Step 1: Download VMware Workstation for Linux

1. Visit the official VMware website: https://www.vmware.com/products/workstation-pro.html
2. Select the Linux version and download the .bundle file.

Step 2: Install Required Dependencies

Before installation, install the necessary dependencies:

sudo apt update && sudo apt install build-essential gcc perl -y

(For Fedora/RHEL-based systems, use dnf or yum instead of apt.)

Step 3: Install VMware Workstation

1. Open the terminal and navigate to the directory where the file was downloaded:

cd ~/Downloads

2. Make the .bundle file executable:

chmod +x VMware-Workstation-Full-*.bundle

3. Run the installation script:

sudo ./VMware-Workstation-Full-*.bundle

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 4: Launch VMware Workstation on Linux

1. Run VMware Workstation from the terminal:

vmware

2. If required, enter the license key or use the trial version.
3. Now you can start creating virtual machines.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Virtualization Disabled: Ensure VT-x or AMD-V is enabled in BIOS.
• Kernel Headers Missing (Linux): Install required headers using:sudo apt install linux-headers-$(uname -r)
• Permission Denied Error: Run the installer with sudo privileges.