When we install the macOS system in a VMware virtual machine, if it is used for a long time, the space occupied by the physical machine will become larger and larger. Even if you delete, uninstall, and empty the recycle bin in the macOS system, the space in the physical machine will not be the same. The disk space didn't shrink at all, and the longer it went on, the more space it took up.
When encountering such a problem, there are two solutions.
The first way is to shut down macOS. Click "Edit Virtual Machine Settings"
Click on Hardware - Hard Drive
Finally, click "Disk Defragment" and "Compress" in sequence.
The advantage of this method is that it can optimize and free up some space and all the files and programs in the macOS system are saved. The disadvantage is that the space optimization is not thorough and re-optimization is not obvious.
The second method is to directly take a snapshot of the macOS system. The function of the snapshot is equivalent to the backup in the Windows system. The difference is that the backup in Windows will occupy a lot of disk space, while the snapshot in the VMware virtual machine will not occupy the disk space, but there are Same effect.
First shut down the macOS system, then select the system name (macOS 13.6 in the picture below) --> Snapshot --> Take a snapshot
The name is required. If you want to describe it, feel free to write it. If you want to back up multiple snapshots in the future, it is recommended to fill in the description appropriately. This makes it easier to find the period you want to restore the snapshot in the future.
The advantage of this method is that the disk usage will be completely cleared, maximizing disk space savings. The disadvantage is that when you restore a snapshot, the files and applications in the macOS system will be completely lost, which is equivalent to restoring the system in Windows. All the contents of the installation disk (C drive) in the previous system will be erased.
Just like the VMware system package produced by Shilin Studio, since versions 12.7 and 13.6, an initial state macOS system snapshot backup will be added to facilitate everyone to quickly restore the best state of the system's initial installation.
If you find the installation troublesome and don't want to waste time, you can use this prepared VMware system installation package. Follow the WeChat public account of Shilin Studio and respond to your needs to obtain the download address of the VMware system package.