Preparing a Local VM with Windows 11

What you need

Purpose

To set up a local Windows 11 virtual machine for malware analysis or other projects.

Downloading Windows 11

If you have an Intel processor, go to

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-11-enterprise

Download a Windows 11 ISO file.

Installing Windows

In your virtualization software, create a new virtual machine.

Connect the virtual DVD drive to the ISO file.

Boot from the DVD and follow the on-screen directions to install Windows. This guide may be helpful.

Mac M1, M2, M3, or M4 Users

If you are on Apple Silicon (M1 or later), get the ISO here:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11arm64

In your virtualization software, create a new virtual machine. Use UEFI boot and a hard disk of at least 100 GB.

Connect the virtual DVD drive to the ISO file.

Boot from the DVD and follow the on-screen directions to install Windows 11 Pro. This guide may be helpful.

When you see the "Let's connect you to a network" page, press Shift+fn+F10 to open a Command Prompt, and execute this command:

start ms-cxh:localonly
This opens a hidden dialog window to create a local account directly.

Proceed with the installation normally.

When the installation is done, install VMware Tools as explained below.

Installing VMware Tools

When the installation is done and you see a Windows 11 desktop, from the VMware menu, click "Virtual Machine", "Install VMware Tools".

Click the Install button.

In your Windows virtual machine, open File Explorer. On the DVD drive, run the setup application. Install the software with the default options.

Restart your virtual machine when you are prompted to.

Activating Windows

See massgrave.dev

Updated 4-24-25
Updated to replace BBYPASSNRO 12-11-25