Specifications

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VMware GSX Server Virtual Machine Guide
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.