VMware has announced that its popular desktop hypervisor products, VMware Workstation and VMware Fusion, are now free to all users across various commercial, educational, and personal sectors.
The transition, effective November 11, 2024, marks a shift in VMware’s strategy to make these powerful virtualization tools more accessible to a broader audience.
Features & Support for the Free Version
Starting immediately, both VMware Workstation and VMware Fusion will no longer require paid subscriptions.
Previously available under a subscription or purchase model, these tools are now free of charge for everyone.
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This change applies to personal and professional use, and the paid versions—Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro—will no longer be available for purchase.
VMware assures current customers with existing commercial contracts that their agreements will remain valid until the end of their respective terms.
These customers will continue receiving the same support and services stipulated in their contracts. However, once the current agreements expire, users will transition to the free version, which will no longer include paid support services.
Despite the shift to a free model, VMware confirms that all core features from the paid versions of Workstation and Fusion will still be available. Users can continue to rely on the tools they know and trust without compromising functionality.
For users accustomed to premium support, VMware will offer extensive online resources such as product documentation, knowledge base articles, and access to community forums.
While dedicated support ticketing will no longer be accessible after contract expiration, these free resources are designed to assist users in troubleshooting and optimizing their experience.
This change reflects VMware’s ongoing investment in its desktop hypervisors. The company is committed to continuing innovation, improving usability, and ensuring the stability of its products.
By expanding its user base, VMware hopes to gather more valuable feedback, drive further enhancements, and deliver even greater value to its growing community.
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