How to Install macOS Sequoia on VMware – 2025 Easiest Way

If you’re looking to experience the latest features of macOS Sequoia on a non-Apple machine, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through everything required to install macOS Sequoia on VMware, from prerequisites and downloads to VM configuration and final tweaks. The method works for both AMD and Intel processors.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Ensure you comply with Apple’s software license agreement.

Prepare Your System

Make sure:

• Virtualization is enabled in your system BIOS (Intel VT-x or AMD-V).
• Your PC has at least 8GB RAM (more is better).
• You’re using VMware Workstation Pro 17.6.3 (free to use now).

Checkout our another article on Enable Virtualization Technology on HP Lenovo Dell Asus Acer Systems.

Essential Downloads

• VMware Workstation Pro 17.6.3: Download
• VMware Unlocker Patch: Get it here
• Sequoia 15.2 (Torrent): Download Torrent
• VMware Tools ISO: Download
• Download the Right OpenCore Boot Image (VMDK)
  • For Intel Processors:
    • Download Intel Boot Disk
  • OpenCore Boot Disk (VMDK) For AMD Processors:
    • 4 Cores: Download this if you want to give 4 cores to your macOS
    • 8 Cores: Download this if you want to give 8 cores to your macOS
    • 16 Cores: Download this if you want to give 16 cores to your macOS
      

Note: Each OpenCore Boot Disk (VMDK) includes OpenCore 1.0.4 on an EFI partition. It must be used on SATA 0:0 in VMware settings.

Install VMware and Unlock macOS Option

1. Install VMware: Install VMware Workstation.
2. Close VMware: Close it once installed.
3. Unlock VMware for macOS:
   • Extract Unlocker files into a folder.
   • Run Unlocker.exe with administrator rights. This step enables the “Apple Mac OS X” option in OS choices.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Let’s detail the steps to install macOS Sequoia on VMware using the OpenCore method:

1. Create Your Virtual Machine

1. Open VMware Workstation.
2. Select “Create a New Virtual Machine” > Use Typical settings.
3. Choose “I will install the operating system later.”
4. Pick “Apple Mac OS X” and version “macOS 15”.
5. Set a name and storage location.
6. Allocate disk space (80GB or more is ideal).
7. Finish the wizard.

2. Customize Virtual Machine Settings

Key Configuration Details:

• RAM: Set to at least 8GB.
• CPU Cores:
  • Intel: Use half of your system’s available cores.
  • AMD: Match the core count with the OpenCore image downloaded.
• SATA 0:0: Use your OpenCore VMDK file here.
• Hard Disk 2: Create new disk to install macOS Sequoia.
• CD/DVD Drive: Attach Sequoia ISO.
• USB Controller: Choose version 3.1.
• Network: Set to NAT or Bridged (for internet access).

Note: This method uses OpenCore EFI image to boot and install the macOS Sequoia, So, You do not need to edit the .vmx file manually.

3. Begin macOS Sequoia Installation

1. Start the virtual machine.
2. Choose Language.
3. Open Disk Utility from the macOS installer.
4. Use Disk Utility to erase only the second disk (not the OpenCore one) .
5. Click Erase. Name it (e.g., “macOS15”), choose Format: APFS, Scheme: GUID Partition Map. Erase the disk.
6. Close Disk Utility.
7. Select Install macOS Sequoia .
8. Choose the “macOS15” drive you just erased.
9. Follow the installer prompts. The VM will restart multiple times. Let OpenCore boot again and select the “Boot macOS Install from macOS15” or similar option each time until the installation is complete.
10. After the final restart, you’ll reach the macOS Setup Assistant. Complete the initial configuration (country, account, etc.). Proceed with installation and follow the on-screen instructions.

Curious about macOS Sonoma? Don’t miss our full step-by-step guide to install macOS Sonoma on VMware—perfect for AMD and Intel users! Click here to explore it now →

4. Final Adjustments & VMware Tools Installation

Manual VMware Tools Installation for macOS:

New VMware versions don’t allow automatic VMware Tools install. Here’s how to do it manually:

1. Download the darwin.iso (VMware Tools) from VMware’s official site.
2. Mount it as a CD/DVD in your VM settings.
3. Start the macOS VM and open the mounted disk.
4. Launch the installer.
5. macOS will block it—go to System Settings > Security & Privacy, then click Allow.
6. Complete the installation and reboot the VM.

Optional: Set Custom Display Resolution

Inside macOS Terminal, run:

sudo /Library/Application\ Support/VMware\ Tools/vmware-resolutionSet 1600 1100

sudo /Library/Application\ Support/VMware\ Tools/vmware-resolutionSet 1600 1100

Ensure the resolution is supported in VMware display settings.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Boot stuck or loop issues (Disable Windows Hypervisor): Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run –

bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
reg add "HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard\Scenarios\HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity" /v "Enabled" /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
reg add "HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard\Scenarios\HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity" /v "Enabled" /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

• macOS doesn’t see install disk: Only format the second disk.
• Wallpaper issue (white background): Go to Settings > Wallpaper and disable “Show as screen saver.” Still white background issue not gone, then download the wallpaper from internet and set it as desktop background.

Conclusion

You’ve now learned how to install macOS Sequoia on VMware on any AMD or Intel computer. With proper files, configurations, and a little patience, you can enjoy a full macOS experience right on your Windows machine.

This setup is ideal for testing apps, exploring Apple’s OS, or using macOS without needing a Mac. Don’t forget to share this guide with anyone interested in macOS virtualization!