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How to Install VMware Workstation Pro on Ubuntu Linux

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 16, 2021 Updated Jun 20, 2026 2 min read
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Installing VMware Workstation Pro on Ubuntu Linux requires downloading the installer file and executing that file via the command line terminal. This method ensures the software's components properly integrate with the Ubuntu operating system, enabling virtual machine creation.

VMware Workstation Pro is desktop virtualization software enabling you to create and run multiple operating systems as isolated virtual machines on your Ubuntu host system.

VMware Workstation Pro 17.5 installation on Ubuntu Linux follows clear steps to get the powerful virtualization software running. This process ensures the software is ready for user operations.

Remember, VMware Workstation Pro requires a paid license for all uses.

⚡ Quick Answer

Download the installer from VMware’s website. Then, install necessary packages using `sudo apt update` and `sudo apt install wget gcc build-essential linux-headers-generic linux-headers-$(uname -r)`. Finally, make the downloaded bundle executable with `sudo chmod +x` and run it with `./VMware-Workstation-*.bundle`.

How to install packages on Ubuntu Linux

📝Good to Know
To install VMware Workstation Pro on Ubuntu, you must install supporting packages and build dependencies.

To do that, run the commands below:

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo apt update
sudo apt install wget gcc build-essential linux-headers-generic linux-headers-$(uname -r)

How to download and install VMware Pro on Ubuntu Linux

Downloading and installing VMware Workstation Pro on Ubuntu Linux is straightforward; first, make sure you have the necessary packages installed, then grab the latest version directly from VMware’s official download page.

💡Tip
Alternatively, run the commands below to download the latest version of VMware Workstation Player on the terminal console.

At the time of this writing, the latest version of VMware Workstation Pro is 16.1.2.

Command Prompt
cd /tmp
wget https://download3.vmware.com/software/wkst/file/VMware-Workstation-Full-16.1.2-17966106.x86_64.bundle

After downloading the above, run the commands below to make the package executable and install VMware Workstation Pro.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo chmod +x VMware-Workstation-*.bundle
sudo ./VMware-Workstation-*.bundle

In Ubuntu, the installation will be run non-interactively. This means you won’t have to complete an installation wizard.

After a brief moment, the installation should complete with a success message similar to the one below. Once you see the message below, you’re done.

💻Code
Extracting VMware Installer…done.
Installing VMware Workstation 16.1.2
Configuring…
[######################################################################] 100%
Installation was successful.

After the installation above, launch VMware Workstation Pro from the Activities Dashboard. Click the Show Application button at the bottom left.

Ubuntu update process using desktop updater tool
ubuntu update from desktop updater

On the app’s dashboard, search for and select VMware Workstation.

VMware Workstation Pro dashboard on Ubuntu Linux
vmware workstation ubuntu dashboard

Once you click on the app, it will open its Welcome wizard. Accept the license terms to continue.

VMware Workstation Pro license agreement page
vmware workstation license page

Accept to check for product updates on startup and continue

VMware Workstation Pro update notification at startup
vmware workstation update at startup

Skip the license key page for a 30-day trial period. After the 30-day trial period, you’ll be forced to purchase a license to use after that time.

Finally, click Install to begin the installation.

VMware Workstation Pro license key entry screen
vmware workstation licesne key

When you finish the wizard, VMware Workstation Home should open up.

VMware Workstation Pro dashboard overview on Ubuntu
vmware workstation dashbaord

That should do it!

Conclusion:

This guide explained installing and using VMware Workstation Pro on Ubuntu Linux. Readers can use the comment form below to report errors or add information.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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