I'm trying to set up a lab environment using Windows Server 2025 on Hyper-V, but I'm hitting a wall. After I boot the VM and hit the 'Press any key to boot from CD/DVD' prompt, it starts the 'Loading Files' progress but then goes to a black screen permanently. The VM still shows as 'Running,' but there's no Windows setup screen. Here's what I've already tried: I've created both Generation 1 and Generation 2 VMs, disabled Secure Boot for the Gen 2, assigned 4GB of static RAM and 2 virtual processors, disabled Enhanced Session, and performed cold boots after each change. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
2 Answers
I suggest increasing the RAM to around 8GB. The installer needs enough memory to load, and 4GB might be cutting it close, especially with larger ISOs that can occupy around 6-7GB. Another angle to explore is the display driver; when you get a chance, try connecting remotely from another computer that has Hyper-V tools installed to see if you can get the display up that way. Stick with Gen 2 as it offers more flexibility with disk management and allows features like Secure Boot.
It sounds like you're dealing with a common issue in Hyper-V where the display doesn't initialize properly. First off, double-check that you're indeed using a Generation 2 VM for Windows Server 2025; if it’s Gen 1, that could definitely cause the black screen. Try temporarily disabling Secure Boot too or set the template to Microsoft Windows. Also, inspect the ISO file itself to ensure it isn't corrupted. Sometimes, a bad ISO can load files only to fail without warning. Lastly, consider lowering the video output settings—Hyper-V can be finicky with Enhanced Session mode. If possible, try giving it more RAM, especially since server setups can sometimes hang if they're short on resources. My bet is on the VM generation or Secure Boot settings causing this problem.
If you're using Gen 2 and still hitting this issue, maybe try closing and reopening the VM console? It sometimes helps with the display.
I'm using a Gen 2 VM already, and I did disable Secure Boot while also trying the Microsoft UEFI template, but it’s still stuck on black screen. I also checked the ISO and it opens fine. For RAM, I've tried both 2GB and 4GB and it still hangs after 'Loading Files.' Any other suggestions?