# Create a clean master installation qemu-img create -f qcow2 -o preallocation=metadata win81-master.qcow2 40G # Install Windows once, configure it, then use it as a backing file qemu-img create -f qcow2 -b win81-master.qcow2 win81-child.qcow2
Point the search path to your VirtIO CD-ROM drive and check the box for Include subfolders . Click to install the NetKVM driver. Graphics Driver (QXLDOD)
drivers, though Windows 8.1 does not include them by default.
Are you setting this up for a or legacy software testing ? Share public link windows 81 qcow2 install
When creating your QCOW2 image, use preallocation to improve performance:
Now that we have our virtual disk image, let's boot QEMU with the Windows 8.1 ISO. Run the following command:
After installing, reboot the VM. You'll notice significantly improved disk and network performance. # Create a clean master installation qemu-img create
Once you reach the Windows desktop, you will notice the internet and high-resolution graphics are likely missing. Open and go to the VirtIO CD-ROM. Run the virtio-win-gt-x64.msi (or x86) installer. This will install all remaining drivers, including: NetKVM : For networking. QXL/Virtio-GPU : For smooth display performance.
In this article, we've walked you through the process of installing Windows 8.1 on a virtual machine using QEMU and QCOW2. With these steps, you should now have a fully functional Windows 8.1 virtual machine up and running. Whether you're a developer, power user, or just someone who wants to try out a new operating system, this guide should help you get started with QEMU and QCOW2.
Follow a step-by-step walkthrough for setting up QEMU on Linux via the Computernewb Wiki Are you setting this up for a or legacy software testing
In Proxmox, tick the "Discard" option when configuring the virtual disk.
Once loaded, your 40GB disk will appear. Select it and click Step 4: Post-Installation Drivers