Linux Guest Operating System Performance Tips

This section offers advice for configuring a Linux guest operating system for better performance inside a GSX Server virtual machine.

Note: This document pertains to the guest operating system that is running inside a GSX Server virtual machine. It does not describe actions that should be taken on Linux running on the host computer.

Guest Operating System Selection

Make certain you have selected the correct guest operating system in the virtual machine settings editor. Choose VM > Settings > Options.

VMware Tools

Make certain VMware Tools is installed. VMware Tools provides an optimized SVGA driver and sets up the VMware Tools service to run automatically when the system starts. Among other things, the VMware Tools service allows you to synchronize the virtual machine's clock with the host computer's clock, which can improve performance for some functions. You can install VMware Tools by choosing VM > Install VMware Tools.

Disconnect CD-ROM

Using the Removable Devices submenu, disconnect your CD-ROM drive if you do not need to use it. Disconnecting the CD-ROM drive reduces processor usage.

Install in Text Mode

When you are installing your Linux guest operating system, use the text-mode installer instead of the graphical installer if you have a choice. This makes the installation process faster.

If you do use a graphical installer and if you are using a Linux host computer, try to run the virtual machine in full screen mode during the installation.

Full Screen Mode

Run your virtual machine in full screen mode. Click the Full Screen button on the VMware Virtual Machine Console toolbar.

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