VMware Workstation Pro is a desktop virtualization powerhouse that lets you run multiple operating systems, like Windows, Linux, or even specialized servers, all on a single computer. Imagine testing software across different environments, developing apps that work everywhere, or simulating entire networks without buying extra hardware. It’s a lifesaver for developers, IT teams, and anyone tinkering with tech. Since Broadcom took over, it’s free for everyone, no strings attached.

Key Features:

• Run multiple virtual machines (VMs) simultaneously on your PC, each with its own isolated OS and apps.
• Create snapshots to save VM states, so you can experiment and roll back changes easily.
• Set up advanced virtual networks to mimic real-world connections, including NAT, bridged, and host-only modes.
• Accelerate 3D graphics with DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.3 support for smooth performance in demanding apps.
• Pass through USB devices, printers, or even GPUs directly to VMs for realistic hardware testing.
• Encrypt VMs and files for security, with options to integrate with Active Directory.
• Share files, folders, and clipboard between host and guests via drag-and-drop or shared folders.
• Connect to remote vSphere or ESXi hosts to manage server VMs from your desktop.
• Support for containers like Docker and local Kubernetes clusters to blend virtualization with modern dev tools.

System Requirements:

• Processor: 64-bit x86 CPU with at least two cores running at 2 GHz or faster; must support hardware virtualization (Intel VT-x with EPT or AMD-V with RVI).
• Memory (RAM): 2 GB minimum on the host (8 GB or more recommended), plus additional for each VM.
• Disk Space: 1.2 GB for installation; at least 20 GB per VM for virtual disks.
• Graphics: DirectX 11 compatible card with 512 MB of video RAM; OpenGL 4.1 or higher for Linux hosts.
• Host Operating Systems: Windows 11 or 10 (64-bit); Linux distributions like Red Hat Enterprise Linux 10, Fedora 42, openSUSE Leap 16.0 (RC), SUSE Linux 16 (Beta), Debian 13, Ubuntu 24.04/22.04 LTS, and others.
• Guest Operating Systems: Wide support including Windows 11 through 7, various Linux (RHEL 10, Fedora 42, etc.), limited macOS, and VMware ESXi 9.0.

Enable virtualization in your BIOS for the best results, and note it works with Hyper-V on Windows but with some limitations.

What's New in Version 25H2 (Build 24995812)

• Calendar-based versioning (like 25H2) for simpler tracking of updates.
• dictTool: A new command-line utility to inspect and edit VM configuration files (.vmx) and preferences.
• USB 3.2 support for faster device performance inside VMs.
• Virtual hardware version 22, enabling access to the latest CPU features.
• Improved detection and indicators for Hyper-V or Windows Hypervisor Platform (WHP) modes.
• Added host OS support: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 10, Fedora 42, openSUSE Leap 16.0 (RC), SUSE Linux 16 (Beta), Debian 13.
• New guest OS compatibility: Oracle Linux 10, VMware ESXi 9.0, plus the above Linux distros.
• Various bug fixes, including Linux full-screen crashes, Intel GPU 3D issues, and excessive Windows event logging.

This release keeps things stable and forward-looking, so your setups stay compatible with emerging tech.