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How to install Open-VM Tools on Ubuntu 24.04

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jul 28, 2024 Updated Mar 20, 2026 2 min read
Open VM Tools for Ubuntu
Open VM Tools for Ubuntu

Install Open-VM Tools on Ubuntu 24.04 to enhance your virtual machine’s performance and integration with VMware hosts.

Open-VM Tools are essential drivers and services that optimize your Ubuntu 24.04 guest operating system within a VMware environment. They bridge the gap between your VM and the host, providing critical functionality.

With Open-VM Tools installed, you can expect improved features like accurate time synchronization between host and guest, faster file transfers, and more efficient memory management. This ensures your virtualized Ubuntu experience is as seamless as possible.

⚡ Quick Answer

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.

🐧Bash / Shell
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

Now, if your virtual machine is set up as a server, you’ll need the server package.

Use the command below to install it.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install open-vm-tools

That command installs the Open-VM Tools server packages.

If you need the development version instead, run this command:

🐧Bash / Shell
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.

💻Code
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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