Overview
Installing Windows 11 on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, etc.) requires a different method than on Intel-based Macs. This guide explains how to set up Windows 11 as a virtual machine (VM) using VMware on Apple Silicon devices.
Note: If you have already installed Windows using earlier instructions, you can skip this guide.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
1. Download Windows 11 for ARM
- Obtain the Windows 11 ARM version from the resources section.
- The file will be in .7z format. Use a decompression tool to extract it.
- You will get a .vmwarevm file – a ready-to-use VMware virtual machine.
2. Open the Virtual Machine in VMware
- Install VMware if you haven’t already.
- Double-click the .vmwarevm file.
- When prompted, choose "I Copied It".
3. Install VMware Tools
- Go to Virtual Machine → Reinstall VMware Tools.
- Click Install to mount the virtual DVD drive.
- Run the setup script via PowerShell and allow changes when prompted.
4. Verify Network Connectivity
- After installing VMware Tools, the VM should connect to the internet.
- Test by visiting google.com inside the VM.
5. Adjust Display Resolution
- Right-click on the desktop → Display Settings → Choose resolution (e.g., 1920×1080).
- Use full-screen mode for better usability.
Process Diagram
Key Takeaways
- You must use the ARM version of Windows 11 for Apple Silicon Macs.
- VMware runs the Windows virtual machine on M1/M2 devices.
- Installing VMware Tools is essential for network, display, and usability features.