Windows 7: Problem with vmware if you UPGRADE to W8.1

Hi there
This might not be relevant for W7 -- but if you UPGRADE rather than install clean Windows 8.1 on your host machine then the Virtual network adapters (on the HOST MACHINE) get hosed up and you lose network / internet connectivity on your VM's.

I don't think there's a direct upgrade path from W7==>W8.1 but if you install W8 first and then do the FREE upgrade to W8.1 this problem could arise.

Solution - either uninstall the VMware software and re-install new / latest version -in my case VMware workstation 10.0.1 or fix the adapter manually by "Repair program" from the VMware install screen.

Then it all works fine again.

Cheers
jimbo

Thanks for the heads up. I always clean install though to avoid problems like this. Its always a good idea. Even though I guess 8.1 is kinda like a service pack to 8. Even though Microsoft says they won't do service packs any more, it kinda is.

Might be good to mention here:

When setting up Windows 8 Pro and you want to use VMware, please keep in mind that you should not enable Hyper-V (Programs & Features > Add Windows Features), as VMware cannot be installed on a system where Hyper-V is enabled.

On a test rig I had difficulties in installing VMware Workstation even after the Hyper-V was again disabled, as if enabling it once leaves to registry something that tells VMware it's a no go.

For me the decision was easy as I like Hyper-V and prefer it. For others I recommend to decide in the beginning if there's a need for Hyper-V or not.

Kari