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Support for OEM Windows installations

Symptoms

When using an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) install media for Microsoft Windows, you may find that the installation of Windows in a virtual machine is problematic. The installation may generate issues with virtual hardware, or cause Windows Product Activation (WPA) to request that you activate your copy of Windows.

Resolution

Some Microsoft Windows OEM discs included with new computers are customized for those computers and include device drivers and other utilities specific to the hardware system. Even if you can install this Windows operating system on your physical computer, you might not be able to install it in a virtual machine. You might need to purchase a new copy of Windows to install in a virtual machine.

For more information, see the Guest Operating System Installation Guide.

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KB Article: 1012881
Updated: Sep 8, 2009

Products:
VMware Converter
VMware ESX
VMware ESXi
VMware Fusion
VMware GSX Server
VMware P2V Assisstant
VMware Player
VMware Server
VMware View Manager
VMware Virtual Desktop Manager
VMware Workstation
VMware vCenter Converter
VMware vCenter Converter Standalone
VMware vCenter Lab Manager
VMware vCenter Lifecycle Manager
VMware vCenter Server
VMware vCenter Stage Manager

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