This blog post details how to install Windows NT 4.0 Server within a Proxmox virtual machine. The process involves creating a new VM in Proxmox, using an IDE hard disk and a legacy network card. Crucially, the installation requires a modified Windows NT 4.0 ISO image with updated drivers to support the virtualized environment. The author provides a download link to a pre-patched ISO, simplifying the process. After configuring the VM and attaching the ISO, the standard Windows NT 4.0 installation process is followed within the Proxmox console. The post also briefly covers installing the guest agent for enhanced integration with Proxmox.
This blog post details the process of installing Windows NT 4.0 Server within a Proxmox Virtual Environment (VE), a task complicated by the age of the operating system and its incompatibility with modern virtualization features. The author emphasizes the necessity of this process for specific legacy applications and outlines a methodical approach leveraging a physical machine as an intermediary.
First, the author explains the challenge: Windows NT 4.0 lacks the necessary drivers for Proxmox's default virtual hardware. Therefore, a direct installation within a Proxmox VE is not feasible. To circumvent this, a physical machine with an IDE hard drive is utilized. The author specifies using a compact flash (CF) to IDE adapter for convenience and potential future use with other vintage operating systems.
The installation process begins on the physical machine. Windows NT 4.0 Server is installed onto the IDE hard drive connected via the CF adapter. Crucially, the author recommends installing only the base operating system and necessary drivers during this initial setup, postponing the installation of additional services or applications.
Once the basic NT 4.0 installation is complete on the physical machine, the system is shut down. The CF card, now containing the installed operating system, is removed and connected to a machine capable of reading it. Using a disk imaging tool, preferably one that supports raw disk images, the contents of the CF card are copied into a raw image file (.img). The author specifically mentions dd as a suitable tool for this task.
This raw disk image is then transferred to the Proxmox server. Within the Proxmox web interface, a new Virtual Machine (VM) is created. Critically, the IDE storage type must be selected for the hard disk of this VM. The previously created raw disk image is then added as the hard disk for the newly created VM. The author suggests utilizing the 'qm importdisk' command-line tool for this purpose, providing a specific example of its usage.
With the virtual hard disk configured, the virtual machine's other settings, such as memory allocation and CPU cores, are adjusted as needed. Finally, the virtual machine is started. Since the operating system was already installed on the physical hardware, it should now boot within the Proxmox VE.
The author concludes by highlighting that although the initial Windows NT 4.0 installation takes place on physical hardware, subsequent maintenance, such as patching, can be performed directly within the Proxmox VE. This approach leverages the flexibility of virtualization while accommodating the limitations of the legacy operating system. This allows users to maintain and utilize legacy applications dependent on this outdated environment within a modern, virtualized infrastructure.
Summary of Comments ( 48 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44084885
Several commenters on Hacker News expressed nostalgia for Windows NT 4.0 Server, recalling its stability and simplicity compared to later Windows server versions. Some discussed specific use cases, like running legacy applications or exploring older technologies. Others shared personal anecdotes about their experiences with NT 4.0, highlighting its role in their early IT careers. A few commenters offered tips on the installation process, including workarounds for potential issues and suggestions for optimizing performance within a Proxmox environment. One user pointed out the potential security risks of running such an outdated operating system.
The Hacker News post "How to Install Windows NT 4 Server on Proxmox" has generated several comments, discussing various aspects of running this legacy operating system in a modern virtualized environment.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the motivations and use cases for such an endeavor. Some users express nostalgia and a desire to revisit a piece of computing history, while others highlight the practical need to maintain legacy systems for compatibility with specific hardware or software. One commenter specifically mentions the necessity of running old scientific equipment that relies on NT 4.
The technical challenges and solutions related to installing and configuring NT 4 on Proxmox are also discussed. Commenters share their experiences and offer tips, including the importance of using an IDE hard disk image and dealing with driver compatibility issues. A common point of concern is the limited memory addressing capabilities of NT 4, and suggestions are given for configuring the virtual machine accordingly.
Some comments delve into the broader context of legacy systems and virtualization. One user points out the increasing difficulty of finding suitable hardware for older operating systems and how virtualization provides a valuable solution for preservation and continued use. Another commenter raises the issue of security vulnerabilities in NT 4 and the importance of isolating such systems within a secure environment.
Several commenters also share anecdotes and personal experiences related to NT 4, reminiscing about its stability and performance characteristics. One comment thread delves into the history of Microsoft operating systems, comparing NT 4 to its predecessors and successors.
Finally, a few comments touch upon the legal aspects of running NT 4, specifically regarding licensing. One commenter advises ensuring proper licensing compliance before proceeding with the installation.