Choose "Installer disc image file (iso)" and select downloaded ISO.
Customize hardware configuration:
Memory: 8 GB
Processors: 2 (4 if your host allows)
Network: NAT (default)
USB Controller: Enabled
Firmware type: UEFI
TPM: Enabled (VMware will auto-add if prompted)
Disk: 64 GB, single file
Once created run the VM and follow OS installation prompts.
For Windows 11 hit SATA boot from CD ROM then hit enter when it says hit enter to boot from cd (paraphrased i should chage to have more accurate wording.
When you see “Let’s connect you to a network” and it will not continue:
Press Shift + F10 (This opens a command prompt.)
In the command window, type: OOBE\BYPASSNRO and press Enter.
The VM will reboot automatically.
Continue with the installation, hitting skip for any error prompts.
Microsoft has patched the ability to bypass network requirements in recent builds and you must sign in with a Microsoft account to continue installation (create a burner account if needed).
Once on the desktop, install VMware Tools from the VM menu. If file explorer doesn't open automatically, navigate to the virtual CD drive and run the installer.
For Ubuntu just follow prompts.
Immediately after each has been installed freeze them and do not intstall anyting to them (i.e. no python or tooling, etc)