VMware Workstation's bridged networking offers seamless integration with your host network, but connectivity problems can arise. This article tackles common bridged network issues within VMware Workstation, guiding you through troubleshooting steps. From examining network adapters and configurations to resolving DNS problems and IP conflicts, we'll provide practical solutions to restore your virtual machine's internet access. Let's get your VMs back online!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Access Virtual Network Editor
- Open VMware Workstation virtual network editor.
Access Virtual Network Editor -
Initiate Settings Change
- Click "Change settings" in the bottom right corner of the network editor window.
- Click "Yes" to confirm changes.
Initiate Settings Change -
Select Physical Adapter
- In the new window, locate the "VMnet0" section under "VMnet Information for bridged".
- Change the "Bridge to" option from "Automatic" to your specific physical network adapter.
Select Physical Adapter -
Save Changes
- Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.
Save Changes
Tips
- This solution addresses connectivity problems that might arise after installing VMware Workstation or after it unexpectedly stops working.
- If the automatic option for the bridge adapter is not working, try selecting your physical adapter explicitly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Incorrect Bridged Network Adapter Settings
Reason: The VMware virtual machine's network adapter might not be properly configured for bridged mode, or the host's network adapter might have incorrect settings.
Solution: Verify that the virtual machine's network adapter is set to bridged mode and that the host's network adapter is enabled and configured correctly.
2. Firewall Interference
Reason: The host's firewall or the virtual machine's firewall might be blocking network traffic between the virtual machine and the external network.
Solution: Temporarily disable both the host and guest firewalls to test for interference, and then selectively allow necessary traffic through the firewall if the issue resolves.
3. IP Address Conflicts
Reason: The virtual machine might have been assigned an IP address that is already in use on the network, leading to connectivity issues.
Solution: Release and renew the IP address of the virtual machine or manually assign a static IP address that is not in use on the network.