104 Chapter4·ConfiguringtheVirtualMachine Figure 4.7 Connecting a USB Device Interfacing with the Host Both VMware and Microsoft Virtual PC provide utilities that simplify and improve the performance of Virtual machines. VMware tools install drivers, as well as addi- tional configuration options. In the case of VMware ESX, VMware tools also enable the balloon driver, which allows for VMware to improve memory utilization and performance. Both of the suites provide the ability for the mouse to "engage" and "disengage" as it hits the boundaries of the window. This function allows a more natural interaction with machines in a window. You should install the vendor tools and utilities and keep them up-to-date, in most if not all instances. Cut and Paste One additional feature that is enabled as a result of installing the utilities is the ability to cut and paste information between the host and the guest operating systems.