How To Install VMWare Workstation player on windows 10

Get Started with Virtual Machines: Easy Installation of VMware Workstation Player on Windows 10

Hey everyone, Darren here from Darren’s Tech Tutorials!

If you’re looking for a powerful, flexible, and—best of all—free utility to run a single virtual machine on your Windows or Linux PC, then you’ve come to the right place. VMware Workstation Player is the gold standard for students, educators, and home users who need a robust environment for learning, testing software, or just playing around with a different operating system.

The best part? VMware offers a completely free version for non-commercial, personal, and home use!

In this quick, straightforward guide, we’re going to walk through the complete installation process for VMware Workstation Player (we’ll be using version 15.5) on a Windows 10 machine. Let’s dive in and get this fantastic tool installed!

What is VMware Workstation Player?

Simply put, VMware Workstation Player allows your computer to run other operating systems (like Ubuntu, a different version of Windows, or even macOS, depending on your setup) inside a window on your main desktop. This is known as a Virtual Machine (VM).

It’s the ideal choice when you need a streamlined way to manage and interact with a single VM without the complexity of the full Workstation Pro suite.

Step 1: Downloading the Installer File

The first step is securing the official installer file directly from VMware. While you could search for it, we highly recommend using the official direct link to ensure you get the legitimate, current version.

1. Visit the Official Download Page: Open your web browser and navigate directly to the VMware download page for the Windows Player:
   • Official Link: https://www.vmware.com/go/getplayer-wi
2. Start the Download: Click the “Download Now” button (or similar prompt) on the VMware site.
3. Wait for Completion: The installer file is quite large, so depending on your internet connection, the download may take a few minutes. We recommend pausing any unnecessary bandwidth usage while this runs!

Step 2: Running the Installation Wizard

Once the download is complete, it’s time to launch the installation wizard.

1. Open the Installer: Locate the downloaded .exe file (usually in your Downloads folder). If you’re using Chrome or Edge, you can click the small arrow next to the file name in the bottom bar and select Open to begin the process immediately.
2. Welcome Screen: The VMware Workstation Player setup wizard will launch. Click Next to proceed.
3. License Agreement: This is an important step! Take a moment to read the licensing terms. Since you intend to use the free version, ensure you understand the terms for non-commercial use. After reviewing and agreeing to the terms, check the box labeled I accept the terms in the license agreement, and then click Next.

Step 3: Configuration Options

The installation wizard will now ask you about several configuration settings. For most home users, the default options are generally fine, but we’ll walk through the specific choices we made in the video.

1. Enhanced Keyboard Driver (Optional): You will be asked about enabling the Enhanced Keyboard Driver. If you do not plan on running highly graphics-intensive virtual environments or specialized hardware setups, you can safely leave this unchecked. Click Next.
2. Software Updates and Usage: You will see options related to checking for product updates and contributing data to VMware.
   • Check for product updates on startup: We recommend leaving this checked to ensure you stay secure.
   • Join the VMware Customer Experience Improvement Program: This is optional, but many users choose to uncheck this box. Click Next.
3. Desktop Shortcuts: The installer asks where you want shortcuts placed. We recommend leaving both the Desktop and Start Menu Programs Folder options checked for easy access. Click Next.
4. Ready to Install: You are now ready to begin the file installation. Click Install.

Note: The installation process may take several minutes. Be patient as the files are copied and configured.

Step 4: Launching VMware Workstation Player

1. Installation Complete: Once the progress bar fills up, the installation is finished! Click Finish on the final screen.
2. Locate the Program: Access your Start Menu and search for “VMware.” You should see VMware Workstation Player. Click it to launch the program for the first time.
3. Licensing Selection: The application will prompt you regarding licensing. To use the free version, you must select the option: Use VMware Workstation Player for free for non-commercial use.
4. Click Continue.
5. Click Finish.

Congratulations! You now have VMware Workstation Player successfully installed and configured on your Windows 10 PC, ready to host your first virtual machine.

Ready to Virtualize!

That’s all there is to it! VMware Workstation Player is now installed and waiting for you to create or import your first virtual machine. This powerful, free tool opens up incredible possibilities for learning and development without risking your host operating system.

If you encountered any issues while following along with this installation guide, please drop a comment below. I’m always happy to jump in and help you troubleshoot!

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Happy virtualizing!