VMware Workstation 17.5 Adds Key Security and Automation Enhancements
We’re excited to announce the latest release of VMware’s flagship desktop virtualization platform – VMware Workstation 17.5 Pro and VMware Workstation 17.5 Player. This new version adds several important security and automation features to help keep your virtual machines protected and easier to manage.
Enhanced VM Encryption
Workstation 17.5 introduces a new encryption scheme that provides stronger security for your virtual machines. New VMs will use this advanced encryption by default, while existing VMs can be upgraded. This ensures your VMs remain confidential and safe from unauthorized access.
Secure vTPM Support for Import and Export
For VMs using virtual Trusted Platform Modules (vTPMs), including Windows 11 VMs, Workstation now enables you to securely export and import templates without exposing sensitive vTPM data like encryption keys. This allows you to deploy from golden images while maintaining security boundaries.
Automation for vTPM VMs
Speaking of vTPMs, Workstation also adds new automation capabilities that allow you to programmatically control VMs protected by vTPMs. This includes new support in vmrun and the vmrest API to specify the vTPM unlock password when interacting with encrypted VMs.
Better OS Support
Workstation 17.5 updates support for the latest operating systems for Windows 11, Linux kernel 6.x and more. We’ve also moved to virtual hardware version 21, bringing performance improvements and compatibility enhancements.
As always, this release contains numerous bug fixes and smaller feature and accessibility enhancements as well.
VMware Workstation is relied upon every day by millions of IT professionals, developers, and tech enthusiasts across the globe. This release continues our commitment to moving the industry forward with hypervisor innovation, security, and an unmatched user experience.
If you already own a copy of Workstation 17, you can check for updates within the app.
Still on Workstation 16 or earlier? Download your 30-day trial of Workstation 17.5 Pro and check out all the new goodness today!
Release Notes
Workstation Pro: https://docs.vmware.com/en/VMware-Workstation-Pro/17.5/rn/vmware-workstation-175-pro-release-notes/index.html
Workstation Player: https://docs.vmware.com/en/VMware-Workstation-Player/17.5/rn/vmware-workstation-175-player-release-notes/index.html
