| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 13, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001124610 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 13, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | VMWARE, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-33622 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-3292913 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3401 Hillview Avenue |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Palo Alto |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 94304 |
| City Area Code | (650) |
| Local Phone Number | 427-5000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Class A common stock |
| Trading Symbol | VMW |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
