How to install Open-VM Tools on Ubuntu 24.04
Installing Open-VM Tools on Ubuntu 24.04 helps your virtual machine run much smoother and connect better with its host computer.
Open-VM Tools are special software pieces, like drivers, that allow your Ubuntu 24.04 operating system inside a virtual machine to work well with the VMware system it’s running on.
When you install them, your virtual Ubuntu can keep its clock in sync with the main computer, move files faster, and manage its memory better. This makes using your virtual Ubuntu much more efficient.
Install Open-VM Tools on Ubuntu 24.04 by opening a terminal and running ‘sudo apt update && sudo apt install open-vm-tools-desktop’ for desktop versions or ‘sudo apt install open-vm-tools’ for server versions. Reboot your virtual machine after installation.
Install Open-VM Tools for Desktop VMs
If you’re running a desktop version of Ubuntu in your VM, you’ll want to install the desktop package.
Use the command below for that.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install open-vm-tools-desktop
Once it’s done, restart your VM to make sure everything takes effect.
Install Open-VM Tools for Server VMs
Installing Open-VM Tools on your Ubuntu 24.04 server helps it work better with your virtual machine. This makes your server run smoother and faster. To install the main parts for the server, open your terminal and use the command below to update your system and then install open-vm-tools.
Use the command below to install it.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install open-vm-tools
This command installs the Open-VM Tools server packages.
If the development version is what you need, try this command instead:
sudo apt install open-vm-tools-dev
Reboot your VM to apply the changes.
To check which version you’ve got, run the command below.
apt-cache policy open-vm-tools*
And that’s it!
Conclusion:
- Installing Open-VM Tools on Ubuntu 24.04 is essential for optimizing the performance and functionality of virtual machines in VMware environments.
- Depending on whether you are running a desktop or server VM, you can choose to install the Open-VM Tools desktop package or the Open-VM Tools server package, respectively.
- Additionally, for those interested in the development version, there is an option to install the open-vm-tools-dev package.
- After installation, reboot the VM to apply the changes and validate the version installed using the apt-cache policy open-vm-tools* command.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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