How to tell if Hyper-V VM is Generation 1 or Generation 2

What is the difference between Hyper-V VM Generation or Generation 2?

As the name suggests, Generation 1 is older than Generation 2, Gen 1 is more suitable for running older software applications or 32-bit guest operating systems, while Gen 2 works well with newer 64-bit operating systems.

Regarding boot time and support: Gen 1 virtual machines have slower boot times since they use BIOS firmware, while Gen 2 virtual machines boot faster due to the use of Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) firmware.

Remember that the maximum amount of virtual RAM and the maximum number of virtual CPUs that can be assigned to a VM depend on its generation. That is, if you are using Gen 1 VM, you can increase up to 1 TB of RAM and 64 virtual processors. This number takes an astronomical leap in Gen 2, with 12 TB of RAM and 240 virtual processors.

How to tell if Hyper-V VM is Generation 1 or Generation 2

Understanding the VM generation is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your desired guest operating system and leveraging advanced security features.

Method 1: Utilizing Hyper-V Manager

Launch Hyper-V Manager: Access the Start Menu and search for "Hyper-V Manager."

Select the Target VM: Within the left pane of Hyper-V Manager, locate and click on the specific virtual machine you wish to identify the generation for.

Inspect the Summary Tab: Navigate to the middle pane and ensure the Summary tab is active. At the bottom of this window, locate the Generation section. This will display either "1" for Generation 1 or "2" for Generation 2.

Method 2: Leveraging a PowerShell Command

Open PowerShell with Administrative Privileges: Right-click on the Start Menu button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin). This grants the necessary permissions to access Hyper-V VM information.

Execute the Get-VM Command: Within the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:

PowerShell

get-vm | format-list Name, Generation

Usa el código con precaución.

content_copy

This command retrieves detailed information about all your Hyper-V VMs and presents it in a well-formatted list. The output will display the Name of each VM alongside its corresponding Generation.

Understanding Generation Differences:

Generation 1 VMs: These virtual machines offer broader compatibility with guest operating systems, supporting both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures. 

However, they lack advanced security features like Secure Boot and UEFI firmware.

Generation 2 VMs: Designed specifically for 64-bit guest operating systems, Generation 2 VMs provide enhanced security through features like Secure Boot and UEFI firmware. This generation is ideal for modern operating systems like Windows 10 and 11.

By effectively using the described methods, you can effortlessly determine the generation of your Hyper-V virtual machines. This knowledge allows you to make informed decisions about guest operating system compatibility and take advantage of the security benefits that second-generation virtual machines offer.