# Running Windows 11 on Mac with VMware Fusion Pro: An In-Depth Guide
Recently, the virtualization scene for Mac users has undergone a notable transformation. Following Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware, VMware Fusion Pro is now available for free for personal use, creating an appealing choice for those who need to run Windows applications on their Mac devices. This article will assist you in navigating the setup of VMware Fusion Pro 13, installing Windows 11, and fine-tuning your virtual machine for optimal performance.
## Why Opt for VMware Fusion Pro?
VMware Fusion Pro ranks as the second most utilized virtualization solution for Mac users, just behind Parallels. Its recent transition to a free model for personal use introduces exciting opportunities for users who require Windows for specific applications without needing a complete Windows machine. Whether for software development, testing, or executing legacy applications, VMware Fusion Pro offers a strong platform for virtualization activities.
## Setting Up Your VMware Fusion Pro Personal License
### Step 1: Create Your Account
1. Navigate to the [Broadcom User Registration page](https://profile.broadcom.com/web/registration).
2. Input your email address and click **Next**.
3. Validate your email using the six-digit code sent to your inbox, then click **Verify & Continue**.
4. Complete the required personal information, accept the user terms, and click **Create Account**.
### Step 2: Download VMware Fusion Pro
1. Visit the [VMware Fusion software download page](https://support.broadcom.com/group/ecx/productdownloads?subfamily=VMware+Fusion).
2. Choose VMware Fusion 13 Pro for Personal Use.
3. Agree to the terms and conditions, and then click the download button.
4. Finalize the Trade Compliance Verification by entering your user details and clicking **Submit**.
### Step 3: Install VMware Fusion Pro
1. Open the downloaded `.dmg` file and double-click on the VMware Fusion icon.
2. Click **Open**, enter your Mac’s administrator password, and proceed with the installation.
## Downloading and Installing Windows 11
### Step 4: Configure Your Virtual Machine
1. Start VMware Fusion and select **Get Windows from Microsoft**.
2. Click **Continue** until you arrive at the **Download Windows 11** screen.
3. Click **Download Windows**. Keep in mind that while Windows 11 is not free, Microsoft does offer a grace period for activation.
### Step 5: Set Up Windows 11
1. After the download finishes, select **UEFI** and click **Continue**.
2. Opt to encrypt only the necessary files for TPM support and auto-generate a password, making sure to memorize it.
3. Create a new virtual disk and adjust settings based on the resources available on your Mac.
### Step 6: Install Windows 11
1. Click the Play button to initiate the installation. When prompted, press any key to boot from the Windows ISO.
2. Follow the prompts to select your language, time format, and keyboard layout.
3. When requested for a product key, select **I don’t have a product key** and choose **Windows 11 Pro**.
4. Accept the license terms and select **Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)**, then pick the unallocated space for installation.
### Step 7: Bypass Microsoft Account Login
1. On the country and region screen, press **Shift + F10** to open Terminal.
2. Enter `OOBEBYPASSNRO` and hit Return. Windows will restart.
3. After restarting, select your country and keyboard layout, then skip the Microsoft account login by temporarily disconnecting the network adapter.
### Step 8: Complete Windows Setup
1. Name your device and choose **Set up for personal use**.
2. If preferred, skip the password setup, and modify privacy settings to your liking.
3. Once setup is done, install VMware Tools for enhanced performance.
## Finalizing Your Setup
### Step 9: Run Windows Update
1. Navigate to **Start menu → Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates** to verify that your system is current.
### Step 10: Optimize Your Virtual Machine
Modify the settings for processors and memory according to your usage requirements. For general tasks, it is recommended to keep resource allocation below 50% to preserve overall system performance.
## Conclusion
Setting up Windows 11 on your Mac using VMware Fusion Pro is a seamless process that can be completed in under 30 minutes, assuming you have a steady internet connection. With VMware Fusion Pro now accessible for free for personal use, it serves as an excellent alternative for users seeking occasional access to Windows applications without requiring advanced features available in other solutions like Parallels.
Feel free to share your thoughts or inquire in the comments below!
