Windows Server 1.1 : Create a new virtual machine

To install Windows Server 2019 in a VM we will use Hyper-V Manager. Open the Start menu, type Hyper-V, click Hyper-V Manager. The very first thing to set up is the Virtual Switch: open Virtual Switch Manager, pick External, then Create Virtual Switch. Name it (here: VSwitch) and choose the physical adapter the host actually uses to reach the network. On a laptop, both an Ethernet and a Wi-Fi adapter are typically listed — pick the one that is currently connected. If you are on Wi-Fi, pick the Wi-Fi adapter. Confirm with OK; Windows will warn that "pending changes may disrupt network connectivity" — say yes.

Create the VM

  • In Hyper-V Manager, click New → Virtual Machine, then Next.
  • Name it (for example RTS-Server) and click Next.
  • Generation: choose Generation 2 (required for recent operating systems), Next.
  • Startup memory: 2048 MB is the minimum to consider; 4096 MB (= 4 GB) is the recommended value if the host has the RAM. Keep Dynamic Memory enabled so the VM consumes more RAM when needed and releases it otherwise.
  • Networking: pick the VSwitch we just created.
  • Virtual hard disk: keep the default — Hyper-V creates a new VHDX with the VM.
  • Installation options: choose the middle option Install an operating system from a bootable image file, then browse to the Windows Server 2019 ISO and attach it.

The summary screen recaps the name, generation, memory, networking, virtual disk and OS source. Click Finish. The VM is created successfully. The goal of this step was simply to obtain a clean VM ready to receive the OS install — the deeper Hyper-V options and additional configurations will be covered in a later lesson dedicated to Hyper-V.

Summary

This lesson walks through the complete process of creating a new virtual machine in Hyper-V on Windows Server. Students learn to set up a virtual switch with proper network adapter selection, configure VM generation and memory settings, allocate virtual storage, and attach an installation image to successfully deploy a new virtual machine.

Key points

  • Create a virtual switch in Hyper-V Manager by selecting the appropriate network adapter (Ethernet or wireless, matching your actual connection method)
  • The virtual switch determines how the VM will connect to network resources and the internet
  • Select generation 2 for Windows Server VMs to leverage more recent system capabilities
  • Allocate a minimum of 2048 MB (2 GB) memory, with 4096 MB (4 GB) recommended for optimal performance
  • Enable dynamic memory to allow the VM to consume additional RAM when needed and release it when unused
  • Attach a Windows Server ISO image during VM creation to enable direct operating system installation after deployment

FAQ

What is the virtual switch and why is it important when creating a VM?

The virtual switch acts as a network connection point for the VM. It must be connected to the correct network adapter (wireless or Ethernet, depending on your actual connectivity) to ensure the virtual machine can properly access network resources and the internet.

Why is generation 2 recommended instead of generation 1?

Generation 2 is recommended for Windows Server because it supports more modern features and capabilities compared to generation 1.

Is dynamic memory required?

While dynamic memory is not required, it is recommended because it allows the VM to use additional RAM when needed and release it when not in use, improving overall host system efficiency.