A set of VMware device drivers:
These drivers include:
1. Graphics Performance: VMware Tools installs a SVGA driver that increases video
refresh.
2. Efficient Memory Allocation: A memory control driver that is installed with
VMware Tools provides increased efficiency in memory allocation.
3. Accelerated Mouse Driver: For increased mouse responsiveness.
4. Optimized SCSI Driver: A Bus Logic SCSI driver provides faster I/O performance
for some guest OS.
VMware Tools control panel:
The Tools control panel lets you modify settings.
5. Run Scripts: Scripts can be defined to run after particular events such as the VM
starting up or shutting down.
6. Shrink the Virtual Disk: By reducing the amount of disk space a VM’s virtual disk
takes up by removing empty unused space will lead to more usable storage on your
hosts volume.
Connect External Devices:
7. You can connect external media devices such as a floppy (who uses those anymore)
or CD/DVD drive. These appear as a virtual device when presented within the guest
OS. Note: USB drives can’t be shared from the host ESX server to a VM.
So Installing VMware Tools eliminates or improves the following issues:
Low video resolution
Inadequate color depth
Incorrect display of network speed
Restricted movement of the mouse
Inability to copy and paste and drag-and-drop files
Missing sound.
Where to check whether VM is having latest VMware tools?
a. Connect to your ESX host or vCenter by using vSphere Client.
b. Select your Virtual machine and go to “Summary” Tab in right side windows.
c. In General sub windows, check VMware Tools, If it shows
OK - Your VM machine is having VMware Tools.
Out of Date - Tool need to upgrade.
Not Installed - VM doesn’t have tools.
FIG.1
How do install VMWare Tools
1. Open the VM by using VM Console and Logon to Windows os.
2. Click on VM=>Guest=> Install/Upgrade VMWare Tools.
3. Follow the steps and complete the installation. Restart the machine when it asks
for it.
