How to Uninstall VMware Tools for Azure VM: Step-by-Step Guide

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When migrating virtual machines (VMs) from VMware to Azure, one critical step often overlooked is uninstalling VMware Tools before the migration. If VMware Tools is not removed prior to migration, using standard uninstallation methods after the VM is already on Azure may fail. This can result in leftover services, files, and drivers that interfere with the stability and performance of your Azure VM.

This article explains why VMware Tools must be uninstalled before migration and provides a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure a clean removal process.

Why Uninstall VMware Tools Before Migrating to Azure?

Key Reason: Standard Uninstallation Tools May Fail After Migration

Once a VM is migrated to Azure, VMware Tools can become difficult or impossible to remove using normal uninstallation methods. This is because certain VMware drivers and services are tightly integrated with the VM’s operating system, and the migration process can alter how these components function. As a result, leftover VMware Tools can cause:

  • Compatibility Issues: VMware-specific components may conflict with Azure’s infrastructure, leading to degraded performance or errors.
  • Failed Updates: Remnants of VMware Tools can prevent proper updates or installations of software on the Azure VM.
  • Operational Instability: Unremoved VMware services and drivers may continue running, consuming system resources unnecessarily.

By uninstalling VMware Tools before migration, you ensure a clean and stable VM environment in Azure, free from VMware-related conflicts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Uninstall VMware Tools

1. Use the Microsoft Support Tool

The Microsoft Support tool is specifically designed to resolve issues that block programs from being installed or removed. It is highly effective for removing stubborn applications like VMware Tools.

Steps:

  1. Download the Tool: Access the tool on the official Microsoft Support page (Tool Name: MicrosoftProgram_Install_and_Uninstall.meta.diagcab).
  2. If you see the File Download box when you start downloading, select Run or Open.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to uninstalling VMware Tools .
  4. If you cannot find the vmware tools listed, you might need to go to registry “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall” to search vmware tools to find the product code, or you might want to run below command line to identify the product code.
Get-WmiObject -Query "SELECT * FROM Win32_Product WHERE Name LIKE '%VMware Tools%'" | Select-Object Name, IdentifyingNumber

2. Remove VMware Services via Command Prompt

Even after using the Microsoft Support tool, some VMware services may remain active in the system. These services can be manually removed using Command Prompt.

Steps:

  • Open Command Prompt: Launch Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Run the Following Commands
sc delete VMTools 
sc delete vm3dservice 
sc delete VGauthservice 
sc delete vmvss
  • These commands will successfully delete VMware services from the system.

3. Delete the VMware Folder

Finally, remove any remaining VMware files from the system directory to ensure complete uninstallation.

Steps:

  1. Navigate to the Directory: Open File Explorer and go to C:\Program Files.
  2. Delete the Folder: Locate the “VMware” folder and delete it.

Pro Tip: Best Practices for Migrating VMs to Azure

Before migrating VMs from VMware to Azure, always uninstall VMware Tools and related software. This step is critical because, after migration, normal uninstallation methods may fail to remove VMware Tools completely. By following the outlined steps, you can avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth transition to the Azure platform.

Conclusion

Uninstalling VMware Tools before migrating virtual machines to Azure is essential to prevent post-migration issues. Leveraging the Microsoft Support tool and manual removal methods ensures a clean and complete uninstallation process. Whether you’re managing Azure-based VMs or on-premises infrastructure, these practices will help optimize your migration workflow and prevent unnecessary troubleshooting.

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