How to Change Linux Ubuntu Screen Resolution in Parallels

Introduction

Discovering how to adjust the screen resolution of your Ubuntu installation running on Parallels can be a simple process with the right steps. This guide will take you through the process of installing Parallels Tools, adjusting your screen resolution, and using the xrandr command for even more control.

Prerequisites

To follow this guide, you will need the following:

A Virtual Machine (VM) running an Ubuntu installation. Parallels Desktop installed on your host machine. Basic knowledge of Linux terminal commands.

Step-by-Step Guide

Install Parallels Tools

Parallels Tools are essential for extended functionality in Parallels Desktop. Here’s how to install them:

Ensure your Ubuntu VM is running. Go to the Actions menu in the Parallels Desktop toolbar. Select Install Parallels Tools and follow the on-screen prompts. Once Parallels Tools are installed, you can usually change the resolution by resizing the Parallels window. Ubuntu should automatically adjust to the new resolution.

Adjust the Resolution Using the Display Settings

If you prefer a more manual approach, you can adjust the resolution via the Display settings:

Open the Settings from the application menu. Navigate to the Displays section. Select your desired resolution from the dropdown menu.

Using the Terminal for Custom Resolution

If you need a custom resolution, you can manually add it using the xrandr command:

Open a terminal session in your Ubuntu VM. Run the xrandr -q command to view the current resolutions and display names. To add a new resolution, use the xrandr --newmode command. For example: In the terminal, run the following command to add a custom resolution: xrandr --newmode "1366x768_60.00" 85.25 1366 1466 1606 1876 768 771 781 806 -hsync vsync Add a new custom resolution. Add the new resolution to your display using the xrandr --addmode command. For example: In the terminal, run the following command: xrandr --addmode DISPLAYNAME 1366x768_60.00 Add the new resolution to your display. Set the new resolution using the xrandr --output command. For example: In the terminal, run the following command: xrandr --output DISPLAYNAME --mode 1366x768_60.00 Set the new resolution.

Remember that you may need to restart the VM for the changes to take full effect.

Understanding the Importance of Parallels Tools and xrandr Command

To further understand the implications of these steps, it's important to recognize that commands run in the terminal operate within the context of the Guest OS. Running the xrandr -q command provides you with information about the Guest OS's video configuration. From the host perspective, you can only obtain information about the host machine and its hardware.

The xrandr -q command on the host system will only show the video settings of the host, and running it in the guest system will show the video settings of the guest. This ensures that your settings are adjusted correctly within the virtual environment.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully change the screen resolution of your Ubuntu VM running on Parallels. If you encounter any issues, ensure that Parallels Tools are correctly installed and functioning. Understanding the role of Parallels Tools and the xrandr command will help you manage your virtual environment more effectively.