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Table Of Contents
9 Follow the instructions at the end of the script.
Depending on the features you use, these instructions can include restarting the X session, restarting
networking, logging in again, and starting the VMware User process. You can alternatively reboot the
guest operating system to accomplish all these tasks.
What to do next
If a new virtual hardware version is available for the virtual machine, upgrade the virtual hardware.
Start the VMware User Process Manually If You Do Not Use a Session Manager
One of the executables used by VMware Tools in Linux, Solaris, and FreeBSD guest operating systems is the
VMware User process. This program implements the fit-guest-to-window feature and Unity mode, among
other features.
Normally, this process is started automatically after you configure VMware Tools and then log out of the
desktop environment and log back in. You must start the process manually in the following environments:
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If you run an X session without a session manager (for example, by using startx and getting a desktop
and not using xdm, kdm, or gdm).
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If you are using certain older versions of GNOME without gdm or xdm.
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If you are using any session manager or environment that does not support the Desktop Application
Autostart Specification, available from http://standards.freedesktop.org.
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If you upgrade VMware Tools.
Procedure
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To have the VMware User process start when you start an X session, add vmware-user to the appropriate
X startup script, such as the .xsession or .xinitrc file.
The vmware-user program is located in the directory where you selected to install binary programs, which
defaults to /usr/bin. The startup script that needs to be modified depends on your particular system.
n
To start the process after a VMware Tools software upgrade or if you notice certain features are not
working, open a terminal window and enter the vmware-user command.
Uninstall VMware Tools
Occasionally, an upgrade of VMware Tools is incomplete. You can usually solve the problem by uninstalling
VMware Tools and then reinstalling.
Prerequisites
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Power on the virtual machine.
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Log in to the guest operating system.
Procedure
u
Use the appropriate operating-system-specific procedure to uninstall VMware Tools.
Operating System Action
Windows 7
Use the guest operating system's Programs > Uninstall a program item.
Windows Vista and Windows Server
2008
Use the guest operating system's Programs and Features > Uninstall a
program item.
Windows XP and earlier
Use the guest operating system's Add/Remove Programs item.
Getting Started with VMware Player
32 VMware, Inc.