Installing Windows 11 on a VMware Workstation virtual machine can be thwarted if the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and Secure Boot aren’t enabled. Despite Microsoft not mandating these security measures during its developmental phase, they are essential components to ensure maximum security and functionality. TPM chips are pivotal for executing cryptographic tasks, prominently generating and safeguarding encryption keys that empower features such as Windows Hello and BitLocker. With Secure Boot in the equation, threats like rootkits stand no chance of compromising a trusted OS during its initiation. Fortunately, with VMware Workstation, you don’t need these components physically present in your computer to experience their benefits, thanks to virtualization. Dive into this risewindows guide as we walk you through the process of activating TPM and Secure Boot on VMware, paving the way for a seamless Windows 11 installation on your virtual machine.
How to Enable TPM and Secure Boot on VMware to Install Windows 11?
Follow the below-mentioned steps to enable TPM and Secure Boot on VMware to install Windows 11:-
Step 1. Launch VMware Workstation.
Step 2. Select your virtual machine.
Step 3. Access the Settings option by clicking the VM menu.
Step 4. Choose the Options tab in the Virtual Machine Settings window.
Step 5. Make sure Access Control is selected.
Step 6. Then, select the Encrypt button under the “Encryption” section.
Step 7. For encryption, a password is required. So, set up a password for encryption.
Step 8. Then, encrypt the file by clicking the Encrypt button.
Step 9. Select Advanced from the left side options.
Step 10. On the right sidebar, under the “Firmware type” section, select the UEFI option (if applicable) and check Enable secure boot.
Step 11. Now, VMware will turn on UEFI and Secure Boot.
Note: Creating a brand-new virtual machine is advisable if you do not have a VM with UEFI firmware.
Step 12. Select the Hardware tab.
Step 13. Then, click the Add button.
Step 14. Choose the Trusted Platform Module to run Windows 11.
Step 15. TPM is now enabled for Windows 11 in VMware. Click the Finish button.
Step 16. Click OK.
By diligently following the provided steps, your computer should be equipped with the necessary security features to meet the criteria for the Windows 11 upgrade compatibility check.
Build a Windows 11 Virtual Machine with Secure Boot and TPM support on VMware
Follow the below-given steps to create a Windows 11 virtual machine with Secure Boot and TPM support on VMware:-
Step 1. Start VMware Workstation.
Step 2. To create a new virtual machine, click the File menu and choose New Virtual Machine.
Step 3. Then click the Next button.
Step 4. Make sure you select the latest option for hardware compatibility for virtual machines.
Step 5. Then, click the Next button.
Step 6. You can install the operating system later if you select the I’ll install the operating system later option.
Step 7. Continue by clicking Next.
Step 8. Make sure that Microsoft Windows is selected under the “Guest operating system” option.
Step 9. Click on the “Version” tab, and select Windows 10 and later x64 (or Windows 11 if available).
Step 10. Click Next.
Step 11. Choose a name for the Windows 11 virtual machine.
Step 12. Select a location for the virtual machine to be stored.
Step 13. Continue by clicking Next.
Step 14. Ensure that the “Firmware type” option in the “Firmware type” section is set to UEFI.
Step 15. Select the Secure Boot option.
Step 16. To continue, click Next.
Step 17. Now, select the number of processor cores. Two or more is advisable.
Step 18. Continue by clicking Next.
Step 19. Please specify how much RAM is needed (4GB or more is recommended).
Step 20. Then, click the Next button.
Step 21. Choose your preferred network connection.
Step 22. Select the Next button.
Step 23. Use the default I/O controller if you don’t know which I/O controller to use.
Step 24. Select Next.
Step 25. Select the virtual disk type option (NVMe is often a good option).
Step 26. Choose the option Create a new virtual disk.
Step 27. Then, click the Next button.
Step 28. The disk size should be gigabytes (64GB or greater). For Windows 11, you need to create a minimum of 64GB hard drive.
Step 29. Click the Next button.
Step 303. As for the rest of the settings, use the defaults unless you need to configure them differently.
Step 31. Click Next.
Step 32. Refresh the page by clicking the Next button.
Step 33. Finish by clicking on the Finish button.
Step 34. Choose the virtual machine you want to use.
Step 35. Go to the VM menu and select Settings.
Step 36. Choose Options from the menu.
Step 37. Select Access Control from the menu.
Step 38. You can encrypt your data by selecting Encrypt under the “Encryption” section.
Step 39. Set up a password for encryption.
Step 40. To encrypt, click the Encrypt button.
Step 41. Select the Hardware tab.
Step 42. Click the Add button.
Step 43. Select Option for hardware addition.
Step 44. Ensure that the Trusted Platform Module option is selected.
Step 45. Windows 11 now has TPM enabled in VMware.
Step 46. After clicking Finish, the process will be completed.
By adhering to these instructions, you should successfully install Windows 11 on a virtual machine via VMware Workstation.
Conclusion
Setting up Windows 11 on a VMware Workstation virtual machine requires certain security components, notably TPM and Secure Boot, to be activated. These elements are crucial for security and enhanced functionality, making them non-negotiable for a seamless Windows 11 installation experience. This guide has elucidated both the process of activating these security features and creating a new virtual machine with these features. Following these comprehensive steps will ensure your VMware Workstation is fully prepared for a Windows 11 installation.
