Windows HyperV


  1. Posts : 1,333
    10 Pro retail 1909
       #1

    Windows HyperV


    In order to test apps before installing them I would like a VM.
    I have Windows 10 Pro, 6GB RAM, my network adapter is 802.11n + version 6.30.223.256.
    I think I have to enable virtualization in my old BIOS, then at control panel>windows features, check virtualization or hyper V.
    I was thinking this 5 year old desktop with a new hard drive and new PSU may not be able to support a VM. It may not be worth losing a functional machine to use a VM if there is a load put upon it. If this is not the case, I would like to go forward.
    Is there anyone here who could tell me if the above is right, if my system is capable of a VM and what to do next regarding a host to test new apps?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 4,666
    Windows 10 Pro x64 21H1 Build 19043.1151 (Branch: Release Preview)
       #2

    Everything comes down to what CPU you have, if it supports Intel VT-x and if you have a BIOS that supports or enables VT-x by default.

    Open up Device Manager and expand the CPU Tree, and finally post a screenshot or report back the exact CPU model you have.

    One additional thing you might consider, is adding more RAM. For single virtualization 6GB might be just enough, but if you start experimenting with multiple VMs at once, then 16GB would be much better. You can virtualize 2 small VMs with 8GB of RAM but I would not recommend going that low, although I DO have that amount on my Virtulization Laptop.
      My Computers


  3. Posts : 15,480
    Windows10
       #3

    slicendice said:
    Everything comes down to what CPU you have, if it supports Intel VT-x and if you have a BIOS that supports or enables VT-x by default.

    Open up Device Manager and expand the CPU Tree, and finally post a screenshot or report back the exact CPU model you have.

    One additional thing you might consider, is adding more RAM. For single virtualization 6GB might be just enough, but if you start experimenting with multiple VMs at once, then 16GB would be much better. You can virtualize 2 small VMs with 8GB of RAM but I would not recommend going that low, although I DO have that amount on my Virtulization Laptop.
    I agree - 6GB is not really enough. For Windows vms, you really need 4GB at least. I also found setting memory to dynamic was a bit hit or miss in performance, so I always switch it off and use static 4GB.

    BTW if pc is only five years old, I would be very surprised if it was not Hyper-V capable.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 4,666
    Windows 10 Pro x64 21H1 Build 19043.1151 (Branch: Release Preview)
       #4

    cereberus said:
    I agree - 6GB is not really enough. For Windows vms, you really need 4GB at least. I also found setting memory to dynamic was a bit hit or miss in performance, so I always switch it off and use static 4GB.

    BTW if pc is only five years old, I would be very surprised if it was not Hyper-V capable.
    I currently run with dynamic memory, where min memory is 512MB and startup and max memory is set to 2048MB. Works really well for Windows 10. Usually Hyper-V changes RAM to 800-1200MB for me. :)

    EDIT: Sorry...since I upgraded my VMs to run with 4 cores, I use MIN 512, MAX 4096 and Startup 2048. This is on x64 Windows 10.
      My Computers


  5. Posts : 1,333
    10 Pro retail 1909
    Thread Starter
       #5

    requirements


    I attached 2 shots of the CPU.

    I don't think it is wise to put more $ in this old machine so I will stick with 6GB RAM.

    I could not quite understand some of what you said as I am only an average user.

    I get the idea 6 GB is not adequate and a VM is a consideration for the next machine which may be soon.
    Attached Thumbnails Attached Thumbnails Windows HyperV-cpu.png   Windows HyperV-specccy.png  
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 4,666
    Windows 10 Pro x64 21H1 Build 19043.1151 (Branch: Release Preview)
       #6

    Don't worry...I have a worse laptop than yours and I still consider it a viable option to add up to 16GB of RAM. I have 8GB now.

    You have everything in order for virtualization except for a bit tiny RAM.
      My Computers


  7. Posts : 1,333
    10 Pro retail 1909
    Thread Starter
       #7

    ram


    slicendice said:
    Don't worry...I have a worse laptop than yours and I still consider it a viable option to add up to 16GB of RAM. I have 8GB now.

    You have everything in order for virtualization except for a bit tiny RAM.
    The next pc will have sufficient RAM -thank you though.
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 4,666
    Windows 10 Pro x64 21H1 Build 19043.1151 (Branch: Release Preview)
       #8

    If you are going to virtualize stuff, use the old laptop for that. It would serve you well for years without consuming too much electricity.
      My Computers


  9. Posts : 1,333
    10 Pro retail 1909
    Thread Starter
       #9

    RAM


    slicendice said:
    If you are going to virtualize stuff, use the old laptop for that. It would serve you well for years without consuming too much electricity.
    >>This old 6GB desktop is my only pc - I have no laptop.so will leave it as is until it needs replacing.
    We love my wife's Chromebook, btw.
      My Computer


  10. Posts : 4,666
    Windows 10 Pro x64 21H1 Build 19043.1151 (Branch: Release Preview)
       #10

    Sorry I got confused with another thread that is about a laptop. Either way...your PC would serve well as a dedicated NAS and VM station. :)
      My Computers


 

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