: https://wincdemu.sysprogs.org/
Which are you using? (vSphere, Hyper-V, Packer, etc.)
Consider using third-party software like Rufus (for USB) or ImgBurn (for CDs/DVDs) to create bootable media. These tools often provide more detailed feedback on potential issues.
Pass the physical USB controller directly into your virtual environment through your hypervisor's settings menu. windows 11 cannot connect unattendediso to cd dvd 2 better
Download WinCDEmu from its official GitHub or SourceForge page. Install it (or use the portable version).
Complete the remaining wizard configurations (e.g., choosing memory, disk size, and CPU).
Instead of relying on your virtualization platform to manage two virtual disc drives simultaneously, you can merge your unattended parameters directly into a single installation image. : https://wincdemu
Rufus will inject these automation instructions directly into the primary media image. Mount this modified ISO to inside your VM settings and leave CD/DVD 2 completely empty. Troubleshooting Core Windows 11 Optical Drive Issues
Some older automation scripts attempt to mount the answer file to a virtual floppy drive (A:) or a secondary optical drive that the modern Windows 11 PE (Preinstallation Environment) environment fails to map correctly. Step-by-Step Solutions Method 1: Add a Second Virtual CD/DVD Drive
: Ensure your VM is set to Generation 2 . Windows 11 will often fail to boot or mount drives in Generation 1. Pass the physical USB controller directly into your
This will scan and replace any corrupted system files.
While UEFI requires SCSI for the system drive, connecting the ISO via an IDE controller during installation can bypass the issue. Shut down the VM. Go to > SCSI Controller > DVD Drive . Remove the DVD drive.