Pro-tip: Always check your snapshot manager before you reboot the appliance.
Because the default Internet Explorer browser inside an unpatched Windows 7 VM often struggles to load modern web pages, it is highly recommended to download these free files on your host machine and transfer them over, or use an updated secondary browser like Google Chrome inside the VM.
Save the .msu files to an external USB flash drive. In the VMware Workstation or vSphere interface, use the device menu to disconnect the USB from your host and connect it to your guest VM. kbvmware s article 78708 free
While the KB article describes the solution, implementing it requires the two Windows update files. Here is the direct, free path to obtaining and installing them:
This specific link has been confirmed by community members as a working redirect to the official article text, even without a paid Broadcom support account. Pro-tip: Always check your snapshot manager before you
immediately after both installations finish. This allows the kernel driver verification library to reload with SHA-2 protocols active. Step 4: Run the VMware Tools Installer
For more detailed technical information and direct download links to the Microsoft patches, please review the official . In the VMware Workstation or vSphere interface, use
Modern editions of VMware Tools require an active C++ runtime suite inside the guest system. Download and install the free package. If your virtual machine lacks internet access, the VMware Tools installation package normally embeds this installer and attempts to install it automatically. 4. Execute the VMware Tools Installation
Attempt the VMware Tools installation again.
By following this guide, you can successfully install VMware Tools on your older Windows VMs, restoring enhanced performance, display functionality, and seamless interaction between the host and guest operating systems—all for free.