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How to Fix VMware Workstation Auto Update Broken Issues?

By: Author Alex Lim

Posted on

Categories Troubleshooting

Why VMware Workstation Auto Updates Fail: Certificate Errors Explained

Auto updates for VMware Workstation are broken. Users report certificate errors when trying to check for updates. This issue began around March 23–24, 2025. The root cause? Broadcom, VMware’s parent company, changed the update server URLs.

What Users Are Experiencing

  • Certificate Error: When checking for updates, users see a warning about an invalid certificate.
  • Manual Updates Required: Automatic updates no longer work, forcing users to download updates manually from Broadcom’s portal.
  • Affected Versions: VMware Workstation Pro 17.6.3 and Fusion Pro 13.6.3 are impacted.

What Changed?

Broadcom altered the infrastructure for software updates. This change disables in-product updaters for VMware Workstation and Fusion. Now, users must:

  1. Log in to Broadcom’s support portal.
  2. Download the full installer package manually.
  3. Install the update themselves.

Older versions of Workstation can no longer be accessed via direct URLs, as these now redirect to the Broadcom portal.

User Reactions

A forum thread on Broadcom’s site confirms the issue. Users complain about the inconvenience of manual updates and the lack of transparency from Broadcom about reintroducing automatic updates.

Key Takeaways

  • No Quick Fix: Until further notice, automatic updates won’t work for VMware Workstation or Fusion Pro.
  • Manual Process: Users must rely on Broadcom’s portal for updates.
  • Future Uncertainty: It’s unclear if or when in-product updates will return.

Advice for Users

  1. Check Forums Regularly: Stay updated on developments via Broadcom’s user forums and community posts.
  2. Bookmark the Portal: Save Broadcom’s support portal link for quicker access to downloads.
  3. Plan Ahead: Allocate time for manual updates, especially if you manage multiple installations.

This situation highlights a frustrating shift for users relying on seamless auto-updates, but adapting to manual processes is currently the only solution until Broadcom provides clarity or improvements.