Microsoft updates its free virtual computers running Windows 11

Microsoft has returned with another upgrade after last month’s free release of brand-new virtual machines running Windows 11. There are four different virtualization software types of the Windows 11 Development Environment 2212 that may be downloaded right now. For VMWare, second-generation Hyper-V, VirtualBox, and Parallels, you can get a free copy of the Windows 11 virtual computer.

Microsoft’s official virtual machines for Windows 11 weigh roughly 20GB and come with the following applications:

  • SKU for Windows 11 Enterprise (evaluation)
  • With UWP,.NET Desktop, Azure, and Windows App SDK for C# workloads enabled, Visual Studio 2022 Community Edition
  • Ubuntu installed with Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 enabled
  • the Windows Terminal programme
  • enable developer mode


The industry leader in software claims that the virtual machines are designed for users who wish to immediately begin developing Windows apps utilising the most recent versions of Windows, the developer tools, SDKs, and ready-to-use examples. A quick, simple, and cost-free approach to see what Windows 11 and its developer tools have to offer is also provided by this.

Up until March 5, 2023, Microsoft has made its most recent virtual machines available without charge or activation (the previous version is valid until January 10, 2023). After that, Windows 11 will need a valid licence key from you in order to keep using the virtual machine. Pro tip: As long as the editions are compatible, you can still activate Windows 11 with Windows 7 keys.

Christopher Woodill

About ME

Enterprise technology leader for the past 15+ years…certified PMP, Six Sigma Black Belt and TOGAF Enterprise Architect. I collaborate with companies to help align their strategic objectives with concrete implementable technology strategies. I am Vice President, Enterprise Solutions for Klick Health.

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