Did my Hyper-V VM get wiped?

I have a Windows 10 PC (Pro, 64-bit, 22H2: 19045.3693) that has a Hyper-V 32-bit Win10 (also 22H2 but not updated, not connected to the Internet) running so I can use a very old version of Act. It has been running fine for several months, with regular use almost every working day. But, now, Windows (the VM) wants to reinstall?


After a week or so of the PC being shut down, I get the Windows Setup app when I start this Win10 32-bit VM. Did I lose everything that was in that session or (a) can I find the data files or (b) somehow get Win10 to load and not run Windows Setup instead? Am hoping for (b), am OK with (a).

Seeking HELP!

cereberus said:

Check settings firmware in hyperv menus and check boot order is right.

If not, we may need to boot from a Macrium Reflect iso, and fix the bcd.


We can recover data by mounting vhdx as a drive.

How do I mount vhdx as a drive? When I try to Mount it, a pop-up says that it's still in use.

Did you first check the boot order for the VM firmware?

No. I think I've lost it. The vhdx file is there but I can no longer Start. Current error is:



If not too late, how do I check the boot order?

So, I gave up on this and created a new VM with a new vhdx.

Thanks to those that responded; I should have been more patient and waited for clearer/fuller explanations and directions.