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Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

VMware Workstation Pro is a powerful desktop virtualization platform that allows users to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single computer. Designed for developers, IT professionals, and system administrators, it provides a secure and efficient environment for testing, development, and network simulation across Windows, Linux, and legacy systems.

VMware Workstation Pro delivers stable performance, advanced networking options, and snapshot management, ensuring smooth operation even under demanding workloads. Its efficient resource handling and cross-platform compatibility make it ideal for development, educational use, and testing across varied environments, providing flexibility and reliability for modern and legacy workflows.

Efficient virtualization with broad system support

VMware Workstation Pro excels in performance consistency, delivering near-native speeds across most supported operating systems. Its use of hardware acceleration via Intel VT-x and AMD-V technologies enables smooth, responsive multitasking even under demanding workloads. The program also supports high-resolution displays, USB devices, and virtual TPM modules, enhancing both usability and security. These features make it a reliable choice for developers, IT professionals, and testers handling complex, resource-intensive virtual environments.

Beyond basic OS emulation, this tool allows users to create isolated virtual labs and precisely simulate complex IT infrastructures with ease. Its linked clones, advanced network simulation, and snapshot management simplify testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Seamless integration with external development and automation tools enhances workflow efficiency, enabling teams to securely test, refine, and validate applications before deployment, reducing risk and ensuring reliable performance in production environments.

While robust and dependable, the software still requires considerable hardware system resources, especially when operating several virtual machines simultaneously. Licensing expenses can be high for casual users or smaller teams looking for a more economical option. In addition, certain advanced enterprise capabilities remain exclusive to higher-tier VMware products, which may restrict flexibility for users relying entirely on local desktop environments.

  • Pros

    • Excellent performance and stability
    • Broad OS compatibility
    • Advanced networking and snapshot tools
    • Seamless integration with VMware ecosystem
  • Cons

    • High system resource usage
    • Some advanced features locked to enterprise versions

Bottom Line

Reliable virtualization for power users

VMware Workstation Pro remains one of the most trusted and versatile solutions for professional virtualization. Its balanced combination of performance, customization, and stability ensures it meets the needs of IT professionals, educators, and developers alike. Although resource-intensive, its deep functionality, consistent updates, and proven reliability make it an essential cornerstone for secure, efficient, and scalable virtual environment management across diverse computing setups.

What’s new in version 15.5.5

  • Improved Windows 11 and Linux kernel support
  • Enhanced virtual TPM 2.0 integration
  • Better 3D graphics acceleration performance
  • Updated networking and USB device compatibility


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Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
15.5.5
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Windows
Operating System
  • Windows 7
  • Windows 8
  • Windows 10
Additional Requirements
None
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
543,922
Downloads Last Week
43

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Program available in other languages


Last Updated


User Reviews

3.8/5

28 User Votes


Developer’s Description

Run multiple operating systems concurrently on a single PC.
VMware Workstation Pro and VMware Workstation Player are the industry standard for running multiple operating systems as virtual machines on a single PC. Thousands of IT professionals, developers and businesses use Workstation Pro and Workstation Player to be more agile, more productive and more secure every day. With over 15 years of virtualization leadership, millions of satisfied customers, and more than 50 awards, VMware provides the most stable and secure desktop virtualization platform in the industry.

Workstation products allows users to run multiple operating systems including Linux, Windows and more, as virtual machines on a single PC. Users can replicate server, desktop and tablet environments on a virtual machine, to run applications simultaneously across operating systems without rebooting. Workstation also provides an isolated and safe environment to evaluate new operating systems like Windows 10 and test software applications, patches and reference architectures.

Workstation products make it easy to test almost any operating system and application, all from a local PC. Build apps for Windows 10, test compatibility with any browser, or deploy Android-x86 to check mobile behavior without needing a mobile device. IT pros use Workstation products to securely connect with vSphere, ESXi or other Workstation servers to manage virtual machines and physical hosts. A common hypervisor platform maximizes agility and productivity by enabling easy transfer of virtual machines to and from your local PC. Isolate corporate desktops from BYO devices by disabling copy-and-paste, drag-and-drop, shared folders and access to USB devices. Run restricted virtual machines that are encrypted and password-protected, ensuring that only authorized users can interact with corporate date.


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