Backup and set up a virtual machine for Windows 8.1 on an old laptop using its HDD.
Backup and set up a virtual machine for Windows 8.1 on an old laptop using its HDD.
I need to back up the entire hard disk drive, either as one file or several, to preserve it for future use. Also, I want to set up a virtual machine on a new laptop using my SATA to USB adapter so the Windows 8.1 OS can run there. Please let me know how to do these steps.
The .img file isn't a standard virtual machine drive format; alternatives like .vmdk, .vhd or .vdi would be more reliable. VMware Workstation doesn’t support mounting .img files directly, but you can attempt: treating it as a floppy and booting from it (VMware permits this). It’s uncertain if this works since floppies typically aren’t large enough and aren’t partitioned like hard drives, though it might be possible. Renaming the file to .vhd may help—then verify compatibility with your imaging software or look for a conversion tool. The best official method is using a supported service: https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downl...PId=116424. It’s free, but you’ll need an account from VMware to download it, which can be inconvenient. Make sure the digital signature is correct.
I'm sorry you had to share this update—it's disappointing to hear about the VMware site moving. It seems your reference was for the VMware vCenter Converter. Here’s the updated support link from Broadcom: https://support.broadcom.com/group/ecx/p...ily=VMware vCenter converter&displayGroup=Standard&release=6.6.0&os=&servicePk=203348&language=EN.
Creating an account is required, but the process is free. Even though we haven't used it for a while, it performed well in my previous role.