Convert Physical PC to Virtual Machine - Windows & Linux
Converting a Physical Drive to a Virtual Hard Drive
Do you need to retain access to an existing Windows or Linux system without maintaining the original hardware? Transforming a physical Windows partition into a virtual hard drive offers a solution.
This process enables you to run the operating system within a virtual machine environment, such as VMware, Hyper-V, Parallels, or VirtualBox.
Understanding the Process
Windows operating systems are typically linked to the specific hardware configuration of the computer they are installed on. However, specialized tools can replicate a physical machine’s configuration.
These tools effectively capture the entire state of the physical system and convert it into a format compatible with virtual machines.
Benefits of Virtualization
- Portability: Access your operating system from any compatible computer.
- Resource Efficiency: Run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine.
- Testing Environment: Safely test software and configurations without affecting your primary system.
- Preservation: Maintain access to older systems or software that may not be compatible with current hardware.
By converting to a virtual machine, the operating system can then be booted and operated within the chosen virtualization program.
This method provides a flexible and efficient way to preserve and utilize existing installations.
Virtualizing with VMware: Windows and Linux Systems
VMware provides a complimentary utility called VMware vCenter Converter. This tool facilitates the conversion of both Windows and Linux physical machines into VMware virtual machines.
Subsequently, these virtual machines can be launched within VMware Player, a free application, offering a cost-effective solution. Alternatively, they are also compatible with VMware Workstation or VMware Fusion.
Conversion Process
Begin by downloading vCenter Converter directly from the VMware website and initiating it on the machine slated for virtualization. Select the "Convert machine" option from the toolbar.
The source machine should be identified as the currently running, powered-on computer. The destination should be configured as a VMware Workstation, VMware Player, or VMware Fusion virtual machine, with appropriate settings.
The utility will then proceed to generate a virtual machine based on the existing Windows or Linux system. This process includes necessary modifications to ensure proper booting within a virtual machine environment.
Once created, the virtual machine can be saved to an external storage device. This allows for portability and execution on a different computer.
For Microsoft Hyper-V – Windows Exclusive
Related: A Guide to Creating and Executing Virtual Machines Using Hyper-V
Microsoft provides the Disk2vhd utility, a component of their extensive SysInternals suite. This tool facilitates the conversion of a live Windows installation into a VHD (Virtual Hard Disk) file.
The resulting VHD file is designed for compatibility with Microsoft’s virtualization solutions, notably Hyper-V, which is integrated into professional editions of Windows 8 and 8.1.
Execute the Disk2vhd tool directly on the Windows system intended for conversion. Users can then specify the particular partitions and drives to be incorporated into the VHD file.
A complete image of the active Windows system is then generated as a VHD file. This file can be transferred to another computer and executed within Hyper-V.
Provided the system is launched using Microsoft’s Hyper-V virtualization software, the converted physical system should initiate and operate without issue.
Migrating Systems with Parallels – Windows and Linux Support
Parallels provides a dedicated solution called "Parallels Transporter Agent" designed for system migration. This agent is compatible with both Windows and Linux operating systems.
Its primary function is to facilitate the conversion of a physical computer into a virtual machine, specifically for utilization within the Parallels application on Macintosh computers.
Transfer Methods
The agent allows for flexible transfer options. A physical machine can be copied to a Parallels virtual machine file stored on an external storage device.
Alternatively, the data can be directly transferred to a Mac that is running Parallels, utilizing a local network connection.
Installation and Execution
Begin by downloading the Parallels Transporter Agent application directly from the Parallels website. Subsequently, execute the downloaded file on the Windows or Linux system you intend to migrate.
A guided wizard will then assist you through the process of transferring your existing physical PC to either an external hard drive or your Mac via the network.
During this process, you have granular control, enabling you to select precisely which components and data are included in the resulting virtual machine.
Converting Physical Machines to VirtualBox Virtual Machines: A Manual Approach
VirtualBox lacks a straightforward graphical interface for the conversion of a physical computer into a virtual machine. However, for those willing to undertake a more complex procedure, VirtualBox provides some unsupported guidance for transforming a physical Windows PC into a VirtualBox virtual machine.
This method necessitates modifications to the Windows registry and a system shutdown. Subsequently, a manual disk copy must be created and then converted into a VirtualBox VDI file.
Linux Conversion Considerations
The process of converting a Linux installation to a virtual machine is generally similar. However, it avoids the additional adjustments needed to ensure proper Windows functionality.
Linux installations are often more readily transferable between machines with varying hardware configurations.
Due to its complexity, this procedure is not recommended for beginners. It is documented here for comprehensive coverage of available options.
Users familiar with virtualization may find that alternative solutions, such as VMware or Microsoft Hyper-V, offer a more streamlined experience.
If you are determined to proceed with the manual VirtualBox conversion, detailed instructions can be found on the Migrate Windows page within the VirtualBox wiki.
Windows Licensing and Virtualization
When converting a Windows PC to a virtual machine, potential licensing complications may arise. Windows Activation might identify the altered hardware environment as a new machine.
This could necessitate contacting Microsoft support to re-activate your Windows license, as licenses are typically intended for use on a single computer at any given time.
It’s important to be aware of these potential issues before initiating the conversion process.
Image Credit: Linux Bohman on Flickr