VMware Player is a program that lets you connect a Windows computer to a virtual Linux workstation. You may want to use the VMware Player if you have work to do on a Windows computer as well as programs to run on a Linux workstation. If you need only a Linux workstation, sit in front of a real Linux machine (see the SC Computer Labs to find Linux workstations); your programs will execute more quickly.

Use the following directions if you are running programs on a virtual Linux workstation and create files that you want to keep on a USB key. You may want to refer to the directions for using a virtual Linux machine for directions on starting a virtual machine as well as logging in.

After the Linux desktop appears, put the USB key in the host [Windows] machine. From the VMware menu at the top of the window, select Devices | [name of USB device] | Connect (Disconnect from host). That action makes the USB device part of the Linux virtual machine environment.

To disconnect the USB key, open the File Manager (double click on the file drawer icon), right click on the USB device, and select Safely remove. Remove the device.

If you want to use the USB device on the Windows machine from inside the VM, select Devices | [name of USB device] | Connect (Connect to host).

Help

If you want help using the virtual Linux environment and a USB storage device, please see the consultant at the Engineering Help Desk, 1253 SC, 319-335-5055.