How to Install Windows 11 as a Virtual Machine

In this guide, I will show you how to install Windows 11 as a virtual machine using VMware Workstation 17 Player. These settings are similar if you are using VirtualBox or another tool.

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO

First, obtain the official ISO file from Microsoft.

Go to the official Microsoft download page and find the "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)" section. Select Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO) from the dropdown menu and click "Download Now". Select your preferred product language (e.g., English International) and click "Confirm" to start the 64-bit download. The file size is approximately 5.4 GB.

Step 2: Create the Virtual Machine

Open VMware Workstation Player and select "Create a New Virtual Machine".

1. Setup Wizard

Choose the option "I will install the operating system later" to avoid automated easy install wizards. Select Microsoft Windows as the guest operating system and choose version Windows 11 x64.

2. Encryption and TPM

Windows 11 requires TPM (Trusted Platform Module). VMware Player handles this via software encryption. You will be prompted to set an encryption password for the VM; enter a password you will remember.

3. Hardware Customization

Configure the virtual hardware:

Hard Drive: Set the size (e.g., 60 GB) and choose "Store virtual disk as a single file".
Memory/CPU: Adjust RAM and CPU cores as needed for performance.
CD/DVD: Select "Use ISO image file" and browse to the Windows 11 ISO you downloaded earlier.
Network: Select NAT or Bridged mode depending on your network preference.
Other: Uncheck "Connect at power on" for unnecessary devices like printers or 3D graphics acceleration if not needed.

Step 3: Installing Windows 11

Start the virtual machine. Press any key when prompted to boot from the CD/DVD.

1. Language and Edition

Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences (e.g., English/Swedish). Click "Install Now".

When asked for a product key, click "I don't have a product key". Choose the edition you want to install (e.g., Windows 11 Pro).

2. Drive Selection

Accept the license terms. Select "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)". You will see the virtual drive you created. Select the unallocated space and click Next to begin the installation.

Step 4: Finalizing the Setup

The VM will restart several times during installation.

1. OOBE (Out-of-Box Experience)

Select your region and keyboard layout. Skip the second keyboard layout if not needed.

Name your device (e.g., Win11-VM). Sign in with a Microsoft account when prompted. Create a PIN for quick login.

2. Privacy Settings

Uncheck optional diagnostic data and advertising ID settings to minimize data collection. Skip optional offers for Office 365, Game Pass, and Android phone linking if you do not want them.

Once the setup is complete, you will be greeted by the Windows 11 desktop, fully installed and ready to use.

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