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How To Install VMWare Workstation player on windows 10

Published: December 1, 2025 (Updated: Dec 1, 2025)

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Get Started with Virtualization: How to Install VMware Workstation Player on Windows 10 (Free Version!)

Hi everyone, I’m Darren O’Neill from Darren’s Tech Tutorials, and I’m thrilled to guide you through one of the most essential steps in modern tech learning: installing virtualization software!

In this short but powerful tutorial, we’re going to walk through the complete, step-by-step process of installing VMware Workstation Player on your Windows PC. Whether you’re a student, an educator, or just curious about testing new operating systems safely, VMware Player is the perfect, free utility to get you started.

Let’s dive in and get this fantastic tool set up!

Why Choose VMware Workstation Player?

VMware Workstation Player is widely recognized as a robust and reliable utility specifically designed for running a single virtual machine (VM) on a Windows or Linux host PC.

Here’s why it’s our tool of choice for beginners and enthusiasts:

  • Free for Personal Use: For non-commercial, personal, and home use, the software is completely free, making it ideal for learning and experimentation.
  • Ideal for Education: Organizations, students, and educators frequently use it to deliver managed corporate desktops or to facilitate essential IT training.
  • Simple and Clean: It provides all the core features needed to run a guest operating system without the overhead of more complex virtualization suites.

The version we are installing today is VMware Workstation Player 15.5.

Step 1: Downloading the Installer

The first step is grabbing the setup file directly from the source.

  1. Open your web browser (we used Chrome in the video tutorial).
  2. Navigate directly to the official download page using this link: https://www.vmware.com/go/getplayer-wi
  3. Once on the page, find the correct installer for Windows (it should be clearly labeled) and click Download Now.
  4. Wait for the file to completely download. Depending on your internet speed, this may take a few moments.

Step 2: Starting the Installation Process

Once the download is complete, it’s time to start the setup wizard.

  1. Locate the downloaded installer file (usually in your browser’s download history or your default Downloads folder).
  2. Click on the file to open it. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow the program to make changes to your device.
  3. The Setup Wizard will launch. Click Next to proceed.
  4. You will be presented with the End-User License Agreement (EULA). Read through the terms carefully. Once satisfied, check the box next to “I accept the terms in the license agreement.”
  5. Click Next.

Step 3: Configuring Installation Options

The next few screens allow you to configure how Workstation Player integrates with your system.

  1. Keyboard Driver: You will be asked about the Enhanced Keyboard Driver. For most standard users, it is safe to uncheck this box (it is not strictly necessary for basic use).
  2. Click Next.
  3. Software Updates and Usage: You will be asked about checking for product updates and joining the VMware Customer Experience Improvement Program. We recommend leaving both of these options enabled to ensure you stay secure and up-to-date.
  4. Click Next.
  5. Shortcuts: The installer will prompt you to select where you want to place the program shortcuts (Desktop and Start Menu Program Folder). We recommend leaving both checked for easy access.
  6. Click Next.
  7. Finally, click Install.

The installation process will now begin. This typically takes a few minutes to complete.

Step 4: Launching VMware Workstation Player

  1. Once the installation is finished, click Finish on the setup wizard.
  2. Now, let’s launch the application! Click on your Windows Start menu and search for “VMware.”
  3. Click on VMware Workstation Player to open the program.
  4. The first time you open the program, it will ask you how you intend to use the software. Crucially, select the option to “Use VMware Workstation Player for free for non-commercial use.”
  5. Click Continue.
  6. Click Finish.

And there you have it! VMware Workstation Player is now successfully installed and ready for use on your Windows 10 PC. You are now prepared to create and run your first virtual machine!

Conclusion: Time to Start Virtualizing!

Congratulations! You’ve taken a major step into the world of virtualization. With VMware Workstation Player installed, you can now safely explore new operating systems, run legacy applications, or test development environments without risking your main PC.

If you encountered any issues while following along, please don’t hesitate to comment below! I’m happy to help troubleshoot any snags you might hit.

If this guide was helpful, be sure to like this post and subscribe to Darren’s Tech Tutorials for more clear, accessible technology guides. Happy virtualizing!