Running Windows (Server or Desktop) in PVE is more involved than a simple Linux machine. Initial and post-VM setup must meet some specific conditions.
¶ VM Configuration
All VM configuration tabs can be configured like any other VM, with the exception of the three below.
On the OS tab:
- Type: Microsoft Windows
- Version: <your-version>
- Additional drive for VirtIO: *checked*
- ISO image: Select the VirtIO driver ISO you've downloaded for Windows (this will be used during the installation).
On the System tab:
- Select the storage location for the EFI and TPM disks. I put mine with the system's main boot disk.
- SCSI Controller: VirtIO SCSI single
On the Disks tab:
- Bus/Device: VirtIO Block (changed from SCSI)
- I'd suggest at least a 64GB Disk size too.
¶ Windows Installer
Work through the installer like normal. Once you get to the disk selection page, click the “Hardware not showing up? Load driver to access your hardware” button.
Browse the virtio-win drive, select your architecture and version of Windows. Select the driver that shows up and Install. The virtual disk should now show up as an installation candidate.
¶ Post-Installation
Run the QEMU Agent installer to install all relevant drivers and agent software. Located in the root of the virtIO ISO (virtio-win-gt-x64)