Install VMware Tools is greyed out (Solved)

If you cannot install VMware tools because the “Install VMware Tools” option is greyed out, follow the instructions on this tutorial to fix the problem.

VMware Tools is a suite of utilities that enhances the performance, functionality, and management of virtual machines (VMs) running on VMware’s virtualization platforms, such as VMware vSphere, VMware Workstation Player, and VMware Fusion.

VMware Tools must be installed on the guest operating system (Guest Machine), to improve its performance and interaction with the Host machine.

Normally, in WorkStation Player, VMware Tools can be installed from “Player > Manage > Install VMware Tools” when the guest operating system is running. However, in some cases, the “Install VMware Tools” option is grayed out as in the screenshot below.

How to Install or Reinstall VMware Tools if the “Install VMware Tools” option is Greyed Out.

1. Shut down the Virtual Machine.

2. Then open the virtual machine settings.

3. Select the CD/DVD device* on the left and on the right click Browse.

* Note: If you don’t see the CD/DVD device click Add and then add it.

4. Navigate to the following disk location and select the corresponding ISO file for the guest operating system you have installed. (e.g. for Windows OS select the “windows.iso” file).*

• C:Program Files (x86)VMwareVMware Player

* Note: If you didn’t find the ISO file at the above location, then you can download the VMware Tools in ISO file from here. https://packages.vmware.com/tools/releases/

5. Now ensure that under Device status the Connect at power on option is checked and then click OK.

6. Start the Virtual Machine.

7. Log-in to the guest operating system using an account with Administrator privileges.

8. Now proceed to install VMware tools using one of the following methods

Method 1. Install VMware Tools from Player menu.

a. Click the Player menu, go to Manage and then click Install VMware Tools.

Method 2. Install VMware Tools from VMware Tools DVD Drive.

a. Open File Explorer, click This PC, and then double-click to open the DVD drive (D:) which contains the VMware Tools.

b. Then double-click at setup application to start the installation of the VMware tools.

9. At “VMware Tools Setup” wizard, click Next and follow the onscreen prompts to install the VMware tools.

That’s it! Let me know if this guide has helped you by leaving your comment about your experience. Please like and share this guide to help others.

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Konstantinos is the founder and administrator of Wintips.org. Since 1995 he works and provides IT support as a computer and network expert to individuals and large companies. He is specialized in solving problems related to Windows or other Microsoft products (Windows Server, Office, Microsoft 365, etc.).

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