I've recently configured a new computer utilizing VMware and set up virtual machines (VMs) for various PLC manufacturers. Traditionally, I've relied on Google Drive to store all my important files, including PLC programs. To conserve hard drive space, I'm interested in keeping the Google Drive folder on my root VM while being able to access files from my other VMs. Is this feasible? I've attempted it but haven't found a solution yet. Any insights or guidance would be greatly appreciated!
I utilize VirtualBox on Linux-based host systems, enabling me to establish a shared folder between the host and the virtual machine (VM). You can achieve similar functionality with VMware as well. For detailed instructions on creating shared folders in VMware, visit the official guide here: https://www.vmware.com/support/ws5/doc/ws_running_shared_folders.html.
SD_Scott commented: "I believe you can achieve something similar using VMware." Click to expand... "Absolutely, it’s possible. What puzzled me about the original poster's question was the phrase, 'and only have the Google Drive folder on my root VM.' If your 'root' virtual machine is running, you can seamlessly map a network drive to it through sharing options."
I utilize Dropbox in a similar manner. With Dropbox installed on my host machine, I have configured my Dropbox folder to be shared across all virtual machines (VMs) and mapped to the Z:/ drive. For my VMs, this setup appears as a network drive with an exceptionally fast connection, ensuring seamless access to my files.
To access shared folders within your Virtual Machine settings, navigate to the "Options" section and select "Shared Folders." Simply direct each virtual machine to your Google Drive folder for seamless access across all machines. If you're operating any virtual machines with Windows 7 32-bit, be aware that they often lock files. To minimize this issue, try to turn off as many locking mechanisms as possible. To further alleviate the file-locking problem, I recommend creating a virtual network adapter for each machine that they can all share. This approach has proven effective in reducing file locking incidents.
JaxGTO mentioned: "Navigate to Virtual Machine Settings and then click on Options, followed by Shared Folders. You can direct each virtual machine to your shared GD folder, allowing them all to access it effortlessly. However, if you're using any Windows 7 (32-bit) virtual machines, be aware that they may frequently lock files. To mitigate this, it’s advisable to disable as many locking features as possible. To address the file locking issue, I established a virtual network adapter for each machine that they all can utilize collectively. This approach has proven effective in reducing file locking conflicts. I would appreciate more detailed instructions on implementing this solution, as I am currently relying on a USB flash drive for file transfers. It's quite cumbersome to constantly switch the USB connection between my host and the virtual machines. My host system operates on Windows 7 Professional, while my virtual machine runs on Windows XP Professional."
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Answer: 1. Open the VMware Workstation or VMware Player. 2. Select the VM where the Google Drive folder is installed. 3. Go to "VM" > "Settings" > "Options" tab. 4. Click on "Shared Folders" and select "Always enabled." 5. Add the Google Drive folder as a shared folder. 6. On other VMs, access the shared folder through the network or VMware Shared Folders section.
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