Convert PVM to VHD

Understanding PVM and VHD file formats

PVM (Parallels Virtual Machine) is a file format used by Parallels Desktop, a virtualization software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single machine. The PVM file contains the entire virtual machine, including the operating system, applications, and data.

VHD (Virtual Hard Disk) is a file format used by Microsoft for representing a virtual hard disk drive. It is commonly used with Microsoft virtualization solutions like Hyper-V and Virtual PC. VHD files can contain disk partitions and file systems, making them suitable for use as a virtual machine's hard drive.

How to convert PVM to VHD

Converting a PVM file to a VHD file involves extracting the virtual hard disk from the PVM package and converting it to the VHD format. This process allows you to use the virtual machine created in Parallels Desktop with Microsoft virtualization solutions.

Best software for PVM to VHD conversion

One of the best tools for converting PVM to VHD is StarWind V2V Converter. This free software allows you to convert virtual machine disk files between different formats, including PVM to VHD.

To convert using StarWind V2V Converter, follow these steps:

1. Download and install StarWind V2V Converter from the official website.
2. Launch the application and select File → Open to load your PVM file.
3. Choose the destination format as VHD.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the conversion process.

Another option is to use Parallels Desktop itself to export the virtual machine to a compatible format and then use a tool like Microsoft Virtual Machine Converter to convert it to VHD.

To export using Parallels Desktop, follow these steps:

1. Open Parallels Desktop and select the virtual machine you want to convert.
2. Go to File → Export and choose a compatible format like OVF.
3. Use Microsoft Virtual Machine Converter to convert the exported file to VHD.