VMware Workstation Pro 26H1 Now Supports Ubuntu 26.04 LTS
VMware Workstation Pro 26H1 has officially added support for Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, bringing together two major platforms for virtualization enthusiasts. This update means you can install Broadcom's free virtual machine software on the upcoming Ubuntu LTS release and run it to create and manage VMs. Below, we answer key questions about this development.
1. What is VMware Workstation Pro 26H1?
VMware Workstation Pro 26H1 is the latest major version of the powerful desktop virtualization tool from Broadcom (formerly VMware). It allows you to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single host machine, each in its own isolated virtual machine. Version 26H1 introduces several improvements, including broader OS compatibility and performance optimizations. The 'H1' denotes the first half of the year release cycle, typically arriving in the spring. For this release, the standout feature is official support for Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, both as a host and guest operating system.
2. What is Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is the next long-term support release of the popular Linux distribution, expected in April 2026. LTS releases receive five years of security updates and support from Canonical, making them a stable choice for servers, desktops, and development environments. Ubuntu 26.04 will include the latest GNOME desktop, updated kernel, and a range of software packages. For virtualization users, it offers a reliable host platform for running tools like VMware Workstation Pro, and it can also be deployed as a guest OS within those hypervisors.
3. What does 'support for Ubuntu 26.04' mean for users?
Official support means VMware Workstation Pro 26H1 has been tested and verified to install and run correctly on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS as a host operating system. You can install the free virtual machine software from Broadcom directly onto the Ubuntu desktop and then use it to create, run, and manage virtual machines. Additionally, Ubuntu 26.04 can itself be installed as a guest VM inside VMware Workstation Pro on other host platforms. This dual support ensures compatibility and stability for workflows that rely on both the host environment and the guest operating systems.
4. Why is Broadcom mentioned in the news?
Broadcom acquired VMware in November 2023, and since then, the virtualization giant operates as part of Broadcom's software portfolio. The 'Broadcom's free virtual machine software' mentioned in the announcement refers to VMware Workstation Pro, which is available at no cost for personal use. The company continues to develop and support the product under the Broadcom umbrella. This mention highlights that the software is now provided by Broadcom, not the original VMware entity, though the branding and functionality remain the same. Users should not see any change in the product's behavior or licensing.
5. Is VMware Workstation Pro free for Ubuntu users?
Yes, VMware Workstation Pro is available as a free download for personal use on any supported host operating system, including Ubuntu 26.04 LTS. Broadcom has made the Pro version free for individuals, while commercial users may require a paid license. For Ubuntu enthusiasts, this means you can install the software without cost, provided you use it for non-commercial purposes. The free version includes all the core features needed for running multiple VMs, snapshotting, and networking. To get started, simply download the installer from the VMware website and follow the easy-to-follow installation guide.
6. How can I get VMware Workstation Pro for Ubuntu 26.04?
To install VMware Workstation Pro 26H1 on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, visit the official VMware website (now part of Broadcom) and download the Linux version of the installer. Make sure your system meets the requirements: a 64-bit CPU with virtualization support, at least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB recommended), and Ubuntu 26.04 as the host OS. The download is a single .bundle file. After downloading, open a terminal, make the file executable with chmod +x, and run it with sudo. The installation wizard will guide you through the setup. Once installed, you can launch VMware Workstation Pro from the applications menu and start creating virtual machines immediately.