For years, installing VMware Tools on Windows 7 SP1 with VMware Workstation was a straightforward task. However, with the release of VMware Workstation 16, this process now requires extra steps due to new prerequisites. If your Windows 7 VM isn't fully updated, the installation may fail. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get VMware Tools running smoothly on Windows 7, complete with essential updates and a few workarounds.
Why the Installation Fails
When installing VMware Tools on a Windows 7 VM, you may see these warnings if the VM isn't fully updated:
- VSock Virtual Machine Communication Interface Sockets driver
- Host-Guest Shared Folders driver
You may also encounter the message, “Windows can’t verify the publisher of this driver software.” The issue is due to VMware's updated drivers, which are now signed using the SHA-2 encryption algorithm—unsupported by default on Windows 7.
Meeting the Requirements: Essential Updates
To proceed with the installation of VMware Tools, you’ll need the following updates:
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Windows 7 SP1 – Download it if it's not already installed on your VM.
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KB4474419 Update for SHA-2 Code Signing Support – This update enables Windows 7 to verify the new SHA-2 signatures required for VMware’s drivers.
It’s best to download the updates manually, as this method allows faster installation than relying on Windows Update, which can take longer if updates have previously been set to manual or disabled.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
1. Download and Install Windows 7 SP1
If Windows 7 SP1 isn’t installed, download it from the Microsoft Update Catalog and install it directly on your virtual machine. Be sure to select the version (x86 or x64) that matches your VM’s configuration.
2. Install the KB4474419 Update
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Download the KB4474419 update manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
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Once downloaded, install it in your virtual machine by double-clicking the file. You may need to restart the VM after installation.
Tip: Transfer the update file to the VM in one of the following ways:
- Browser Download: Use the VM’s browser to download the file directly.
- USB Transfer: Save the file on a USB and mount it to the VM through VMware Workstation.
- Drag and Drop: Drag the file into the VM (requires working VMware Tools).
3. Install VMware Tools on Windows 7
With all prerequisites in place, you’re ready to install VMware Tools:
- In VMware Workstation, go to VM > Install VMware Tools with the Windows 7 VM running.
- Run through the installation as usual.
That’s it! You should now have fully functioning VMware Tools on your Windows 7 VM.
P.S. – Who knew bringing an old VM back to life required more patches than a quilt?
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