💡 Introduction: VMware’s Big Change with the 25H2 Update
If you’ve used virtual machines before, you’ve probably heard of VMware Workstation (for Windows and Linux) and VMware Fusion (for macOS). These tools have long been the gold standard for running multiple operating systems on a single computer — perfect for developers, IT professionals, and power users alike.
But there’s a major change this year: VMware, now owned by Broadcom, has released a new versioning system called “25H2”, mirroring Windows’ calendar-based naming style. This means updates like “25H2” will align with the second half of 2025, just like how Microsoft releases Windows versions (e.g., Windows 11 25H2).
Even better news? VMware Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro are now completely free for all personal users — no license keys or trial periods needed. This shift began after Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware, making high-quality virtualization tools accessible to everyone.
However, downloading these tools has changed. The process now requires creating a Broadcom account and navigating through their enterprise download system, which can be a bit confusing for new users.
So in this article, we’ll walk you through — step by step — how to download VMware Workstation Pro 25H2 (for Windows/Linux) or VMware Fusion 25H2 (for macOS). We’ll also explain why this release matters, what’s new, and answer common questions about the new licensing model.
Let’s begin!
🧩 1. What’s New in VMware 25H2?
Before diving into the setup, it helps to understand what this new version offers.
VMware 25H2 isn’t just a version number refresh — it represents a move toward calendar-based versioning, ensuring synchronization with OS releases like Windows 11 25H2.
Some of the improvements include:
- Refined performance: Better CPU and memory management when running multiple VMs.
- Enhanced compatibility: Support for the latest Windows and Linux kernels, including Ubuntu 24.04 and Fedora 40.
- UI improvements: A cleaner, more modern interface that aligns with Windows 11’s design.
- Security updates: Enhanced virtualization-based security and sandboxing for guest systems.
- Free licensing: Both Fusion and Workstation Pro are now free for personal and educational use.
💡 Note: Enterprise users still require commercial licenses, but the free version includes all Pro-level features for individuals.
⚙️ 2. System Requirements
Before downloading, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements:
| Platform | Minimum Requirements | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Windows 10 or 11 64-bit | Windows 11 25H2 or newer |
| macOS | macOS 13 Ventura or later | macOS 14 Sonoma |
| Linux | Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian (64-bit) | Latest kernel supported |
| CPU | Intel or AMD dual-core | Quad-core or higher with VT-x/AMD-V |
| RAM | 4 GB minimum | 8 GB or more |
| Storage | 2 GB for installation | 20 GB+ for virtual machines |
🌐 3. How to Download VMware Workstation or Fusion 25H2
Now let’s walk through the new download process carefully. Broadcom’s website is different from VMware’s old one, so pay attention to each step.
🧭 Step 1: Visit the Official VMware Download Page
Go to:
👉 https://www.vmware.com/products/desktop-hypervisor/workstation-and-fusion
You’ll see options for Workstation Pro (Windows/Linux) and Fusion Pro (macOS).
Click Download Now under your platform.
This will redirect you to Broadcom’s website — the new home for VMware downloads.
🔑 Step 2: Sign In or Create a Broadcom Account
You’ll now be asked to log in with your Broadcom account.
If you don’t have one, click Register and create a free account.
You’ll need to provide:
- First and last name
- Email address
- Country
- Company (select Other if not applicable)
- Address and ZIP/postal code
Once registered, verify your email and sign in.
💡 Tip: Use an active email address because Broadcom may require verification before granting downloads.
🧭 Step 3: Navigate to “My Dashboard” → “My Downloads”
After signing in, you’ll land on your Broadcom Dashboard.
From the left menu, click My Downloads.
Here’s where most users get confused — it’s not immediately obvious where the free VMware products are listed.
Look for a small link that says:
“Free software download available here.”
Click that link to access the public download section.
🔍 Step 4: Search for Your Product
A new page will open listing multiple Broadcom and VMware products.
You can either:
- Search for “VMware Workstation” or “VMware Fusion” using the search box, or
- Scroll down to find the “Desktop Hypervisor” category.
Now select the product you need:
- VMware Workstation Pro 25H2 (for Windows or Linux)
- VMware Fusion 25H2 (for macOS)
Click the product name to continue.
⚙️ Step 5: Choose Your Operating System
If you’re on Windows, select Workstation Pro for Windows (25H2).
If you’re on Linux, select Workstation Pro for Linux (25H2).
For Mac users, select Fusion Pro (25H2).
Once you select your OS, you’ll see the Download button — but it’s greyed out for now.
📜 Step 6: Agree to the License Terms
Before the download link becomes active, you need to:
- Click the Terms and Conditions link (opens a new page).
- Read through it (yes, you must open it at least once).
- Return to the download page and check I agree to the terms and conditions.
After doing this, the Download button becomes clickable.
🧾 Step 7: Fill Out Verification Form
You’ll now be asked for a short verification form — this is required even for free downloads.
Provide the following details:
- Full name
- Address and ZIP code
- Country
- Organization (choose Other if not a company)
Click Submit once you’ve filled it in.
📥 Step 8: Start Your Download
After submission, you’ll be redirected back to the main product page.
Now the HTTPS Download link will be available.
Click it to start downloading the VMware Workstation Pro 25H2 or Fusion 25H2 installer.
💡 Tip: The file size is around 600–700 MB. Depending on your internet speed, the download should take a few minutes.
💿 Step 9: Install VMware Workstation or Fusion
Once downloaded:
- Run the installer (
.exeon Windows,.dmgon macOS). - Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Accept the default installation path unless you want to customize it.
- Once finished, launch VMware Workstation or Fusion from your Start Menu or Applications folder.
You’ll notice the version displayed as 25H2, marking the new release cycle.
No license key or serial number is required for personal use.
🔧 4. Why VMware Workstation and Fusion Are Still the Best
Now that you’ve downloaded VMware, it’s worth understanding why so many professionals rely on it even with alternatives like VirtualBox or Parallels available.
Let’s break it down:
✅ Multi-Platform Support
- Workstation runs on Windows and Linux.
- Fusion runs on macOS (including Apple Silicon support through Fusion Tech Preview).
✅ Professional-Grade Virtualization
You can create, clone, snapshot, and manage multiple virtual machines — each isolated from your host OS — making it ideal for:
- Testing software safely
- Running older operating systems
- Simulating networks or server setups
- Building developer sandboxes
✅ Better Performance
VMware uses hardware-assisted virtualization (VT-x / AMD-V) for near-native performance, even with complex workloads.
✅ Enhanced Integration
- Shared folders between host and guest
- Drag-and-drop file transfer
- USB device passthrough
- Seamless networking modes (NAT, Host-only, Bridged)
✅ Cross-Compatibility
VMware VMs can run across Workstation, Fusion, and even ESXi — the enterprise-grade hypervisor used in data centers.
💬 5. Common Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is VMware Workstation Pro 25H2 really free?
Yes. Broadcom has officially made VMware Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro free for personal and educational use. Commercial users still need a paid enterprise license.
Q2. Can I still use older versions like 17 or 16?
Yes, but VMware recommends upgrading to 25H2 for better performance, support, and bug fixes.
Q3. Does VMware Workstation 25H2 support Windows 11 25H2?
Absolutely. The new release aligns with the same versioning standard and includes kernel-level optimizations for Windows 11 25H2.
Q4. Do I need a Broadcom account to download it?
Yes. Without a Broadcom account, you cannot access the download links.
Q5. Will Fusion 25H2 work on M1 or M2 Macs?
Yes, VMware Fusion now includes a Tech Preview build for Apple Silicon chips, though ARM-based OS compatibility varies.
🧠 6. Tips After Installation
Once VMware Workstation or Fusion is installed, here are a few tips to make the most of it:
- Create Snapshots: Save VM states so you can revert quickly if something breaks.
- Enable 3D Graphics: Go to VM Settings → Display → Enable 3D Acceleration for better UI rendering.
- Use Shared Folders: Easily move files between host and guest OS.
- Install VMware Tools: Enhances performance and integration inside your virtual machine.
- Keep It Updated: Check for updates periodically from within VMware to stay secure.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only. VMware Workstation and Fusion are registered trademarks of Broadcom Inc. Always download software from official sources and review the license terms before use.
Official links:
- VMware Desktop Hypervisor Page: https://www.vmware.com/products/desktop-hypervisor/workstation-and-fusion
- Broadcom Download Portal: https://support.broadcom.com/
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