How to Fix Network Issues in a Windows VM Created Using a Custom ISO (Install NetKVM Driver)

Overview

When a Windows VM is created using a custom ISO on CloudPe, the VM may boot successfully but have no network connectivity. This happens because Windows does not include native drivers for the VirtIO network adapter used by CloudPe.

This article explains:

• Why the issue occurs
• How to identify it
• How to resolve it by installing the NetKVM (VirtIO) driver

Symptoms

• VM console is accessible, but no internet connectivity
• Network icon shows Not connected
• ipconfig shows no IPv4 address
• In Device Manager:
  • Network adapter missing

Root Cause

CloudPe uses VirtIO network interfaces for better performance.
Windows OS does not have built-in VirtIO (NetKVM) drivers.

When a VM is created using a custom Windows ISO without VirtIO drivers:

• Windows cannot recognize the virtual NIC
• DHCP request is never sent
• VM does not receive an IP address

Prerequisites

• Access to the VM console
• Administrator access inside the VM
• VirtIO (NetKVM) drivers available

Resolution: Install NetKVM (VirtIO) Network Driver

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Log in to the Windows VM and open File Explorer.

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Step 2: Navigate to the NetKVM Driver Path

Go to the following location on the mounted VirtIO ISO:

D:\NetKVM\2k19\amd64

Note:

D: is the mounted VirtIO drivers ISO

2k19 is for Windows Server 2019

amd64 is for 64-bit systems

Step 3: Install the NetKVM Driver

1. Locate the file: netkvm.inf
2. Right-click on netkvm.inf
3. Click Install
4. Wait a few seconds (installation completes silently)

Step 4: Verify Network Connectivity

• Open Device Manager
  
• Expand Network adapters
  
• Confirm that the VirtIO network adapter is listed without errors
  

Restart the VM if required

Expected Result

After installing the NetKVM driver:

• Network adapter becomes active
  
• VM receives an IP address
  
• Internet connectivity is restored