Good news for those looking to set up a virtual PC without breaking the bank – VMware Workstation Pro is now available for free for private use. Previously priced at around $250, this software can now be downloaded directly from the Broadcom website at no cost. However, the download process can be a bit tricky, so here is a step-by-step guide to help you through it.
To begin, you will need to create a user account on the Broadcom website by registering on the support portal. After entering your email address and solving a captcha, you will receive a confirmation code via email. Once you enter the code on the website and provide your name, country of residence, and a secure password, you will be registered.
It is important to note that you do not need to expand your profile under “Build Your Profile” unless you intend to use VMware for commercial purposes. If Broadcom asks for a Side ID, it is only necessary for commercial users, so you can skip this step for private use.
After completing the registration process, you can proceed to the Broadcom download area for VMware Workstation Pro. Select the version suitable for your operating system (Windows or Linux) and click on the link for the latest release. This will initiate the download of a file named VMware-workstation-full-17.5.2-23775571.exe or similar.
In some cases, you may encounter a “Screening required” message above the download button, which may delay the download process. If this happens, try reloading the page or logging in at a later time. Make sure to agree to the terms and conditions before attempting the download.
Once the download is complete, installing VMware Workstation Pro is straightforward. Run the EXE file, accept the license agreement, and choose to install the Windows Hypervisor Platform automatically. You can proceed with the default installation settings and deselect options for transmitting usage data to the manufacturer if desired.
After completing the installation process, you are all set to use VMware Workstation Pro for creating virtual PCs. For more information on setting up virtual machines and maximizing the software’s capabilities, refer to additional guides available online.
This guide was originally published on PC-WELT and has been translated for our readers. Laura, an experienced editor with a background in communication science, has been writing about technology topics for various publications and is a valuable member of our team.
