How to Fix a Corrupted Virtual Machine in Parallels?

Parallels is a powerful tool for running multiple operating systems on a single machine. However, like any software, it is not immune to errors. One common issue users face is a corrupted virtual machine. This can occur due to various reasons such as forced shutdowns, software updates, or hardware issues. In this article, we will explore the steps to fix a corrupted virtual machine in Parallels.

Identifying the Problem

When a virtual machine becomes corrupted, it may display error messages such as “The virtual machine is corrupted” or “Boot Failed: Mac OS X Boot Failed: EFI Hard Drive Boot Failed: OS X Recovery.” These errors can be frustrating, especially if you have important data stored within the virtual machine.

Causes of Corruption

Corruption can occur due to various reasons, including:

Forced Shutdowns

Forced shutdowns can cause corruption, especially if the virtual machine was in the middle of a critical operation. This can lead to data loss and corruption of the virtual hard disk.

Software Updates

Software updates, especially those related to the operating system or Parallels itself, can sometimes cause corruption. This is often due to compatibility issues or unexpected changes to the virtual machine’s configuration.

Hardware Issues

Hardware issues, such as disk failures or power outages, can also cause corruption. These issues can lead to data loss and make the virtual machine unusable.

Recovery Methods

Fortunately, there are several methods to recover a corrupted virtual machine in Parallels:

Stop and Restart the Virtual Machine

One simple method is to stop the virtual machine and restart it. This can sometimes resolve the issue, especially if the corruption is minor.

Create a New Virtual Machine

Another method is to create a new virtual machine and configure it to use the existing hard disk image. This can help recover data from the corrupted virtual machine.

Use Parallels Mounter

Parallels Mounter is a utility that allows you to mount the virtual hard disk and access its contents without starting the virtual machine. This can be useful for recovering files and data.

Use Terminal Commands

Terminal commands, such as `prl_disk_tool check –hdd`, can be used to check and repair the virtual hard disk.

Boot from a Recovery ISO

Booting from a recovery ISO, such as Knoppix LIVE, can provide additional tools to recover data from the corrupted virtual machine.

Preventing Corruption

To prevent corruption, it is essential to:

Regularly Back Up Data

Regular backups can ensure that your data is safe in case of corruption. Make sure to back up your virtual machine regularly.

Avoid Forced Shutdowns

Avoid forced shutdowns whenever possible. Instead, try to shut down the virtual machine properly to prevent data loss.

Keep Software Up-to-Date

Keep your software, including Parallels and the operating system, up-to-date to prevent compatibility issues and corruption.