Proxmox VE is a popular open-source virtualization platform widely used for home labs, testing environments, and enterprise workloads. Running Windows 11 as a virtual machine on Proxmox VE is a common requirement for testing, remote desktop, or application compatibility.

In this guide, you will learn how to install Windows 11 on Proxmox VE step by step using the graphical interface (GUI), including TPM and Secure Boot configuration required by Windows 11.

Prerequisites

Before starting, make sure you have:

• A working Proxmox VE server

• Windows 11 ISO file

• VirtIO drivers ISO

• Access to the Proxmox web interface

• Basic understanding of virtual machines

Step 1: Upload Windows 11 ISO

Log in to the Proxmox web interface and upload the Windows 11 ISO file to your ISO storage. This ISO will be used to boot the virtual machine during installation.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine

Create a new virtual machine in Proxmox VE and configure:

• OS type: Microsoft Windows

• Version: Windows 11

• BIOS: OVMF (UEFI)

• Machine type: q35 (recommended)

• CPU and RAM based on your system resources

Step 3: Enable TPM and Secure Boot

Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot:

• Add TPM State device (TPM 2.0)

• Enable EFI Disk

• Use Secure Boot with Microsoft keys

These settings ensure Windows 11 installation passes hardware requirements.

Step 4: Configure Disk and Network

For optimal performance:

• Disk controller: VirtIO SCSI

• Network adapter: VirtIO
  During installation, Windows will require VirtIO drivers to detect the virtual disk.

Step 5: Install Windows 11

Start the virtual machine and follow the Windows 11 installation wizard. When prompted to select a disk, load VirtIO drivers to make the virtual disk visible.

Step 6: Install VirtIO Drivers and Guest Agent

After Windows 11 installation:

• Install all VirtIO drivers

• Install QEMU Guest Agent for better integration and performance

Best Practices After Installation

• Run Windows Update

• Enable Remote Desktop (if needed)

• Configure display resolution

• Create a backup job in Proxmox VE

• Take a clean snapshot

Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 on Proxmox VE is straightforward when TPM, Secure Boot, and VirtIO drivers are correctly configured. This setup is ideal for labs, testing, and virtual desktop environments.