: For maximum security during transit, use tools like WinSCP or the command line to transfer files over an encrypted SSH connection between the host and guest.
: You can select a file in your host OS, drag it, and drop it onto the desktop of your running virtual machine (or vice versa). : For maximum security during transit, use tools
Select and change the folder sharing mode to Always enabled . Click Add to map a specific folder from your host machine. Click Add to map a specific folder from your host machine
Need to transfer more than 10TB? Consider VMware’s vSphere Hypervisor (free ESXi) with a direct 10GbE crossover cable—but that’s a guide for another day. For 99% of large, secure, offline transfers, VMware Workstation Pro 16.2.5 + VMnet2 is your ultimate free solution. For 99% of large, secure, offline transfers, VMware
Released in December 2022, Workstation Pro 16.2.5 primarily focused on stability and security. It addressed several critical issues, most notably fixing a problem that could cause the installation of Microsoft Windows 11 or Windows Server 2022 on a virtual machine to fail. This release also included important security patches, such as fixes for CVE-2022-31705, making it a more robust and secure choice for users. It’s important to note that the build number 20904516 is the specific identifier for this version, which is useful when identifying correct software sources.
“Free” here refers to using VMware’s native capabilities without additional licensing cost for transfer utilities , or using the trial period for a single critical migration. For permanent commercial use, purchase a license. However, VMware Workstation Player (free for personal use) cannot host the advanced virtual networks needed for this guide—so we focus on the Pro trial or legitimate free alternatives like VMware Workstation Player + a separate file server VM.
Completely offline. No network configuration required, eliminating remote vulnerability vectors. Configuration Steps:
