How to Convert VMware VMs to KVM on Linux for Enhanced Virtualization Performance
In this guide, you’ll learn how to convert VMware VMs to KVM on Linux.
KVM offers superior performance for Linux virtual machines.
Converting to KVM enhances virtualization efficiency and reduces resource usage.
Follow these steps to migrate your VMware virtual machines to KVM on Linux.
Why KVM is much Better and Faster for Linux VMs
KVM is faster because it integrates directly with the Linux kernel, providing high performance with minimal overhead.
Hardware virtualization support allows KVM to take advantage of Intel VT or AMD-V, offering better CPU utilization.
Low Latency is achieved with KVM’s ability to run VMs without significant delays, providing near-native performance.
Better resource allocation allows KVM to handle multiple VMs efficiently with flexible CPU, memory, and disk management.
Security is improved as KVM benefits from the Linux security features like SELinux, AppArmor, and seccomp.
Open-source and free, KVM provides a cost-effective solution with robust community support and frequent updates.
Wide compatibility ensures KVM works with various Linux distributions and supports both Linux and Windows guests.

1. Shut Down the VMware VM
Make sure the VMware VM is powered off before proceeding with the conversion.
2. Convert the VMDK to QCOW2 Format
Use qemu-img to convert the VMware VMDK disk to KVM’s QCOW2 format:
qemu-img convert -f vmdk -O qcow2 your-vm.vmdk your-vm.qcow2
-f vmdk
tellsqemu-img
that the input file is in VMware’s VMDK format.-O qcow2
tells it to convert the image into KVM’s QCOW2 format, which supports snapshots and compression.3. Create a New KVM Virtual Machine
Use either virt-manager (GUI) or virt-install (CLI) to create the KVM VM.
With virt-manager (GUI):
– Create a new VM
– Select “Use an existing disk image”
– Choose the converted your-vm.qcow2 disk file
– Set OS type and other parameters accordinglySee: Getting Started with Virt-Manager
With virt-install (CLI):
virt-install \ --name your-vm \ --memory 2048 \ --vcpus 2 \ --disk path=/path/to/your-vm.qcow2,format=qcow2 \ --import \ --os-type=linux \ --os-variant=generic \ --network bridge=virbr0 \ --graphics spice
4. Boot and Test the KVM VM
Boot the newly created KVM VM and verify that it works properly. You may need to:
- Remove VMware tools
- Install qemu-guest-agent or virtio drivers for better performance
- Reconfigure networking if needed
5. Virt Manager Getting-Started Guide
Getting-Started with KVM QEMU Virtualization on GNU/Linux