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
- Download VMware Workstation Pro or Player (version 16.2 or later).
- Run the installer → follow the wizard → restart system.
Step 2 – Create a New Virtual Machine
- Open VMware → click Create a New Virtual Machine.
- Choose Installer disc image (ISO) → select Windows 11 ISO.
- Pick UEFI firmware (not Legacy BIOS).
Step 3 – Configure Hardware
- Assign at least 2 processors / 2 cores, and 4–8 GB RAM.
- Create a 64 GB virtual disk.
- Go to VM Settings → Options → Advanced → Enable Secure Boot.
- Add a virtual TPM (vTPM 2.0) module (Workstation supports this natively).
Step 4 – Install Windows 11
- Power on the VM → boot from ISO.
- Follow the standard Windows 11 setup (language, region, product key, etc.).
- 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
- Press Win + R, type
optionalfeatures.exe
, press Enter. - Check Hyper-V Management Tools and Hyper-V Platform.
- Restart your system.
Step 2 – Create a New VM
- Open Hyper-V Manager → New → Virtual Machine.
- Choose Generation 2 (required for UEFI).
- Assign 4–8 GB RAM and 2+ virtual processors.
- Create a 64 GB virtual hard disk.
- Attach the Windows 11 ISO to the DVD drive.
Step 3 – Enable Security Features
- Open VM Settings → Security.
- Check Enable Secure Boot.
- Add a Trusted Platform Module (vTPM) under Security → TPM.
Step 4 – Install Windows 11
- Start the VM → boot from ISO.
- Follow installation prompts (account, password, region, etc.).
- 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.