VMware Tools: A VMWare Must Have Addon

VMware Workstation is a powerful desktop virtualization software that lets you run multiple operating systems as virtual machines on a single Windows or Linux PC, it's also now free. Which is awesome. If you run VMware Workstation, you will want to download and install VMware tools. VMware Tools isn't some random add-on; it's the performance boost your virtual machines need on day one. Without it, your VM runs, but with it, your VM runs right. Think of VMware Tools as the driver pack and integration layer that turns a basic guest OS into a smooth, responsive part of your system.

The odd thing is that it doesn't ship with VMware, despite being developed by the manufacturer of VMware. There was an option to install it in the VMware Workstation software, which is broken as of this publication, and people have been trying to figure out how to get the software since. Don't panic; we did the work! You can still get a copy and install it yourself. #GeekPower!

What Does VMware Tools Do?

VMware Tools is a suite of add-ons that make VMWare better, less annoying, and more worth using.

Mouse and Display Integration

: No more dragging your cursor and getting stuck in the VM window. With Tools installed, your mouse moves between guest and host like they're part of the same screen. It also supports dynamic screen resizing and multiple monitors. Just resize the VM window, and your guest OS will automatically adjust.

Copy, Paste, and Drag-and-Drop

: Move files and text between your physical machine and the virtual one easily. Clipboard sharing works both ways. You can even drag files directly from the desktop to the VM. Super handy for testing, development, or everyday use.

Improved Performance

: VMware Tools adds optimized drivers, so your virtual hardware behaves like it should. This includes video acceleration, improved disk and network handling, and smoother graphics overall.

Time Sync Between Host and Guest

: Your guest OS automatically syncs its clock with your main system. No more time drift during long-running VMs or snapshots.

Shared Folders

: Set up shared folders between host and guest for quick file access without needing cloud sync or FTP. Perfect for working on code, sharing documents, or transferring files without networking headaches.

Faster Shutdown and Reboots

: It enables clean shutdown, restart, suspend, and resume actions straight from your host system's interface—there is no need to go inside the VM to hit shutdown manually.

Enhanced Guest Metrics

: Running VMs in a server or enterprise environment? Tools feed detailed performance and health data back to vSphere or your hypervisor dashboard. Helps with monitoring, automation, and resource management.

Full Screen Mode with VMware Tools

: Once VMware Tools is installed, your Windows guest OS can properly detect and adjust to dynamic screen sizes, including full screen. That means your guest display resolution updates automatically to match when you hit Full Screen (Ctrl+Alt+Enter) or drag your VM window to a new size. No more scrolling around or seeing black borders. Without VMware Tools? You'reYou're stuck with fixed resolutions, limited display scaling, and a VM that refuses to stretch its legs, which sucks.

How to Install VMWare Tools

Well, since VMware no longer natively supports the installation, we will need to work around it. You will need to:

1. Download the correct file: 64-bit for modern PCs or x86 for older VMs.
2. Copy that download into a USB drive.
3. Open VMware and fire up the VM you want to install.
4. Mount the USB drive in your VM
5. Navigate to the file and click to install.

It will then do its thing, and you will then need to reboot.

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How to Access VMware Tools Once It's Installed

Now, this part is more limited than it sounds. VMware Tools doesn't come with a flashy dashboard at all. Most functions, like clipboard sync, drag-and-drop, and screen resizing, are enabled by default. You can adjust certain settings in the Virtual Machine settings dialog but when Tools is working and running in the background everything works. go. Which, again, is really noice, but really an odd choice from Broadcom. The software is fantastic, yet they provide no information about it, including how to use it or what it does. A few years ago, you got an interface; now you get a tray icon. I suppose we should enjoy the simplicity.

Geek Tip

: If you're not getting clipboard sync or drag-and-drop working, even with VMware Tools installed, Make sure the VM settings allow shared features (e.g., enable drag-and-drop in the VM config before booting).

Geek Verdict

VMware Tools might not sound flashy, but it makes your virtual machine feel like a real part of your setup, not just an isolated blocky window. Without it, things feel clunky and half-baked. With it, you get full-screen smoothness, better control, and a whole lot more capability.
Skip it, and you're running a VM with training wheels. Install it once and enjoy a smoother ride.