Windows 11 Requirements for VMware and Hyper-V: Full Guide with Installation Steps

Windows 11 can run as a guest VM on third-party hypervisors like VMware Workstation/Player and on Microsoft’s built-in Hyper-V. However, because Windows 11 enforces stricter hardware requirements (Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, UEFI), you must prepare the VM properly.

Windows 11 Minimum Requirements (for Guest VM)

• Processor: 1 GHz, 2+ cores, 64-bit CPU with virtualization support (Intel VT-x / AMD-V).
• RAM: Minimum 4 GB (8 GB recommended for smoother VM use).
• Storage: 64 GB or more (SSD recommended for better performance).
• Firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot enabled.
• TPM: TPM 2.0 (virtual TPM can be enabled inside VM).
• Graphics: DirectX 12 compatible GPU, WDDM 2.0 driver.
• Display: ≥ 720p resolution, 9″+ monitor.

How to Install Windows 11 on VMware Workstation or Player

Step 1 – Install VMware

1. Download VMware Workstation Pro or Player (version 16.2 or later).
2. Run the installer → follow the wizard → restart system.

Step 2 – Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VMware → click Create a New Virtual Machine.
2. Choose Installer disc image (ISO) → select Windows 11 ISO.
3. Pick UEFI firmware (not Legacy BIOS).

Step 3 – Configure Hardware

1. Assign at least 2 processors / 2 cores, and 4–8 GB RAM.
2. Create a 64 GB virtual disk.
3. Go to VM Settings → Options → Advanced → Enable Secure Boot.
4. Add a virtual TPM (vTPM 2.0) module (Workstation supports this natively).

Step 4 – Install Windows 11

1. Power on the VM → boot from ISO.
2. Follow the standard Windows 11 setup (language, region, product key, etc.).
3. Complete installation → install VMware Tools for drivers & performance.

How to Install Windows 11 on Hyper-V in Windows 11 Pro/Enterprise

Step 1 – Enable Hyper-V

1. Press Win + R, type optionalfeatures.exe, press Enter.
2. Check Hyper-V Management Tools and Hyper-V Platform.
3. Restart your system.

Step 2 – Create a New VM

1. Open Hyper-V Manager → New → Virtual Machine.
2. Choose Generation 2 (required for UEFI).
3. Assign 4–8 GB RAM and 2+ virtual processors.
4. Create a 64 GB virtual hard disk.
5. Attach the Windows 11 ISO to the DVD drive.

Step 3 – Enable Security Features

1. Open VM Settings → Security.
2. Check Enable Secure Boot.
3. Add a Trusted Platform Module (vTPM) under Security → TPM.

Step 4 – Install Windows 11

1. Start the VM → boot from ISO.
2. Follow installation prompts (account, password, region, etc.).
3. After installation, run Windows Update to fetch drivers.

Troubleshooting Windows 11 VM Setup

• On VMware, disable Hyper-V on the host if performance issues occur (bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off).
• On Hyper-V, Windows 11 Home edition cannot host Hyper-V. Upgrade to Pro or Enterprise.
• If setup complains about missing TPM/Secure Boot, double-check VM settings.

Running Windows 11 on virtual machines is straightforward once you meet the necessary system requirements. Whether you choose VMware Workstation/Player or Hyper-V, both platforms require enabling UEFI, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0 to ensure compatibility. With the correct configuration, you can test, develop, or run Windows 11 in a secure virtual environment without affecting your main system. Following the installation steps carefully will save time and help you avoid common setup errors.

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