Can't get USB Passthrough to work on Hyper V?

Networking
1

Having issues with USB passthrough on Hyper V. Tried connecting my USB device to a virtual machine, but it’s not being recognized. Need assistance in resolving this. Anyone know why it’s happening or how to fix it?

2

Hyper V USB passthrough can be a bit tricky. First, Hyper V does not support direct USB passthrough natively like other hypervisors (e.g., VMware). You need to use alternative methods to access USB devices from your virtual machines. Here’s a rundown of some possible solutions:

1. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

  • Connect to your virtual machine using RDP.
  • Ensure “Devices” and then “Redirect USB devices” are checked in the RDP client settings.
  • This method often works well for things like printers or external drives.

2. USB Network Gate

  • Software like USB Network Gate can share USB devices over the network.
  • Install it both on the host machine and the virtual machine.
  • Share the USB device on the host and access it from the virtual machine.
  • Here is a guide to help: USB Network Gate.

3. Enhanced Session Mode

  • Make sure Enhanced Session Mode is enabled in Hyper V Manager settings.
  • This mode can help with the redirection of local resources including USB.

4. PowerShell Commands

  • Sometimes, scripting gets the job done when GUI fails.
  • Use PowerShell to add a drive or USB device.
Add-VMHardDiskDrive -VMName 'YourVMName' -ControllerType SCSI -Path 'C:\path\to\yourUSBDisk.vhdx'

5. Virtual COM Ports

  • For devices like modems or GPS units, creating a virtual COM port might be useful.
  • Then, link that COM port to your USB device.

Common Pitfalls

  • Check if the USB device is not utilized by the host (e.g., Eject if you’re not using it).
  • Ensure you have the correct permissions set up.

If you’ve tried these solutions and still face issues, there might be more specific troubleshooting needed based on your exact setup and the type of USB device you’re trying to passthrough.

Cant get USB Passthrough to work on Hyper V?
Cant get USB Passthrough to work on Hyper V?1536×542 138 KB

39 Likes
3

Ugh, Hyper-V and USB passthrough… It’s a nightmare sometimes.

Firstly, consider using USB Redirector. It’s another software like USB Network Gate but might suit your needs better. It’s quite straightforward, install it on both the host and VM. They even have a trial version if you wanna give it a shot before committing.

Another method is VirtualHere. This is another USB sharing tool. It essentially makes your USB ports available to your VM as if they were local. Pretty handy, and works across different VM platforms.

If none of this works, you might have to consider switching hypervisors if USB passthrough is critical for your workflow. VMware, VirtualBox, and even QEMU/KVM all have better native support for USB devices.

If you’re trying for really high-stakes stuff, honestly, just look at pro solutions like USB Network Gate. Their software can share USB devices over the network seamlessly. It’s a lifesaver.

4

Alright, so you’re having trouble with USB passthrough on Hyper-V?

Idea 1: Using USBIP

USB over IP (or USBIP) is an official way to share USB devices over a network to your Hyper-V VM. It’s open-source and does the job if you’re into a bit of setup magic.

Steps:

  1. Install USBIP on your host system.
  2. Share the USB device over the network.
  3. Connect to the shared USB device from the guest VM.

Idea 2: Switch Hypervisors (Last Resort)

If Hyper-V continues to give you a headache, it might be worth considering VMware or VirtualBox. They naturally support USB passthrough with fewer hoops to jump through. VMware Workstation and VirtualBox both offer versions free for personal use and could be your safety net.

Idea 3: PCI Passthrough (Advanced Mode)

If you’re after high performance, and not afraid to do some heavy lifting, PCI passthrough might be your ally. Here’s a simplified version:

  • Ensure your hardware supports PCI passthrough (VT-d or IOMMU).
  • Assign a USB controller to the VM in Hyper-V settings.

Suggestion: USB Network Gate

Pros:

  • Ease of Use: Super intuitive, even if you aren’t a tech wizard.
  • Compatibility: Works across most environments, seamless integration.
  • Support: They offer robust customer support.

Cons:

  • Cost: Can be pricey.
  • Network Dependency: Performance depends heavily on your network speed and reliability.
5

Use enhanced session mode with RDP for simple USB use.

  1. On the host, open Hyper V Manager.
  2. Right click your VM, select Settings, check “Allow enhanced session mode.”
  3. On the host, open Hyper V Settings, under Server and User, enable Enhanced Session Mode.
  4. Connect to the VM, choose “Show options,” then “Local Resources,” then “More.”
  5. Check “Other supported Plug and Play devices” and your specific USB device.

Windows often handles USB storage and printers well through this.