OpenStack Windows Image: Windows Server 2016 Guide
Creating an OpenStack Windows Image the right way ensures stable deployments, faster provisioning, and easier automation. Therefore, this guide walks you through building a clean Windows Server 2016 image, preparing it for OpenStack, and uploading it correctly.
At the same time, the process follows cloud best practices, making the image ready for DevOps, DevSecOps, and automated operations. Moreover, the steps are simple and production-friendly.
Preparation for an OpenStack Windows Image
Before you begin, gather the required files and tools. This reduces errors later and saves time.
What You Need
- Windows Server 2016 ISO (download from Microsoft)
- Fedora VirtIO Drivers ISO
External reference: Fedora VirtIO drivers are maintained by the KVM community and are required for optimal performance in OpenStack:
https://fedorapeople.org/groups/virt/virtio-win/direct-downloads/latest-virtio/ - Oracle VirtualBox
- A Linux system with
qemu-imgfor conversion
Because of this setup, your OpenStack Windows Image will support VirtIO networking and storage.
Create the Base Virtual Machine for OpenStack Windows Image
Start by creating a virtual machine in VirtualBox.
VM Configuration
- Name: Windows2016-OpenStack
- Type: Microsoft Windows
- Version: Other Windows (64-bit)
- Memory: Minimum 2 GB (4 GB recommended)
- CPUs: 2 vCPUs
- Disk: QCOW format, 20 GB recommended
However, do not start the VM yet.
Fine-Tune VM Settings for OpenStack Windows Image
Proper settings are critical for a reliable OpenStack Windows Image.
Storage Settings
- Attach the Windows Server 2016 ISO to the first CD-ROM
- Add a second CD-ROM and attach the VirtIO drivers ISO
Network Settings
- Adapter mode: Bridged
- Adapter type: VirtIO (virtio-net)
System and Other Settings
- Enable Serial Port COM1 (logging and debugging)
- Disable audio to reduce overhead
As a result, the VM is ready for installation.
Install Windows Server 2016
Boot the VM and begin installation.
- Choose regional settings
- Select Windows Server 2016 Standard Evaluation
- Accept the license terms
- Choose Custom installation
When prompted for storage drivers, load VirtIO SCSI drivers.
Install VirtIO Drivers for OpenStack Windows Image
After the base installation, install required drivers manually.
Network Driver
- Path:
E:\NetKVM\2k16\amd64 - Install
netkvm.inf
Storage Driver
- Path:
E:\viostor\2k16\amd64 - Install
viostor.inf
Consequently, networking and disk performance will work correctly inside OpenStack.
Enable Remote Desktop Access
Remote access simplifies maintenance and testing.
Open Firewall for RDP
Run PowerShell as Administrator:
Enable-NetFirewallRule -Name RemoteDesktop-UserMode-In-TCP
Enable RDP
- Go to Settings → Remote Desktop
- Allow remote connections
- Disable Network Level Authentication if required
At this point, you can test RDP connectivity.
Configure Cloud-Init for OpenStack Windows Image
Cloud-Init allows dynamic configuration during instance launch.
Set Execution Policy
Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted
Install Cloudbase-Init
Download and install Cloudbase-Init from the official source:
https://cloudbase.it/cloudbase-init/
During installation:
- Use default options
- Set logging serial port to COM1
- Select Run Sysprep and Shutdown after Sysprep
In summary, this step prepares the image for reuse in OpenStack.
Convert the Image to QCOW2
Once the VM shuts down, convert the disk format.
Install Required Tools on Linux
yum -y install qemu-kvm libvirt virt-install bridge-utils
Convert Disk
qemu-img convert -f qcow -O qcow2 windows2016.qcow windows2016.qcow2
Because of this conversion, OpenStack can process the image efficiently.
Upload the OpenStack Windows Image
Upload the qcow2 image using the OpenStack Dashboard.
Image Settings
- Format: QCOW2
- Architecture: x86_64
- Minimum Disk: 20 GB
- Minimum RAM: 2048 MB
After upload, the image appears in the available images list and is ready for use.
Operational Best Practices for OpenStack Windows Image
A well-built OpenStack Windows Image supports automation, scaling, and security. Therefore, it fits naturally into modern cloud platforms.
Organizations often integrate this setup with CI/CD pipelines, Infrastructure as Code, and security policies. In addition, it aligns with Microservices, Cloud, and Automated Ops strategies.
How ZippyOPS Adds Value for OpenStack Windows Image
ZippyOPS helps teams design, build, and manage production-grade OpenStack environments. Their consulting, implementation, and managed services cover DevOps, DevSecOps, DataOps, Cloud, AIOps, MLOps, Infrastructure, and Security.
- Services overview: https://zippyops.com/services/
- Cloud and automation solutions: https://zippyops.com/solutions/
- Enterprise-ready products: https://zippyops.com/products/
- Practical demos and tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@zippyops8329
As a result, teams reduce risk, improve reliability, and accelerate cloud adoption.
Conclusion
Building an OpenStack Windows Image with Windows Server 2016 requires careful setup, proper drivers, and Cloud-Init configuration. However, once completed, the image delivers stable, repeatable, and secure Windows workloads on OpenStack.
For expert guidance, automation, and long-term operations support, contact ZippyOPS at [email protected].
