Since the acquisition by Broadcom, the download process has moved to a new home. Follow these steps to secure your copy: VMware Fusion and Workstation are Now Free for All Users
VMware Workstation Pro is a hosted hypervisor. It allows you to run multiple, isolated operating systems (Virtual Machines or VMs) on a single physical Windows or Linux PC.
| Problem | Fix | |---------|-----| | “VMware Authorization Service not running” | Open services.msc → start “VMware Authorization Service” → set to Automatic | | “Kernel module updater failed” (Linux) | sudo vmware-modconfig --console --install-all | | “Unable to install on Windows 11 with VBS enabled” | Run msinfo32 → if “Virtualization-based Security” is On, disable Core Isolation & Device Guard in Windows Security | | Slow graphics on Windows guest | Install VMware Tools → set 3D acceleration to “Autodetect” in VM settings |
Once you have completed the download, the installation is straightforward, but there are nuances to ensure optimal performance.
Last updated: April 2026
Version 17.6.2 is not just about a new price tag; it provides critical stability and performance enhancements. Resolved Issues
Go to support.broadcom.com . You will need to register for a free Broadcom account. If you have an old VMware account, you can migrate it or create a new one.
Enabling dynamic resolution scaling when resizing the workstation window.
While newer versions like have since been introduced, 17.6.2 remains a highly sought-after build for users requiring stability on specific older kernels or legacy workflows. How to Download VMware Workstation Pro 17.6.2
64-bit Intel or AMD CPU (2GHz or faster) launched in 2011 or later.
The most impactful aspect of version 17.6.2 is its transition to a freeware license . Previously, users had to choose between a restricted free version (Player) and a paid premium version (Pro). With this release, Workstation Pro no longer requires a license key or subscription, effectively merging high-end professional features with a zero-cost entry point for everyone.
Enhanced 3D graphics acceleration for running visually demanding applications and casual gaming inside virtual machines.