Read time 5 minutes

Summary: This document explains auto-mounting VHD/VHDX files in Windows 10 and 8.1. It provides a step-by-step guide for setup using Computer Management, emphasizing user privileges. It also suggests VHD recovery software for damaged files.

Computers running Windows 10 and Windows 8.1 have the capability to utilize virtual hard disks, denoted by the file extensions .vhdx or .vhd. These virtual hard disks simulate the functionality of physical hard drives, providing a versatile storage solution. In simpler terms, a VHD is essentially a file stored on your computer’s physical disk drive, serving as a container for storing various types of data.

One significant drawback of VHD or VHDX drives is the requirement to manually mount them each time you reboot your Windows PC. Typically, regular users must rely on local computer administrators for the privilege of mounting virtual disk files, as this operation requires administrative authorization. Therefore, the most recommended approach for Windows 10 and Windows 8.1 users is to configure VHD/VHDX files to automatically mount at startup. This feature allows these files to be seamlessly integrated into the system, automatically mounting VHD/VHDX files whenever Windows is rebooted.

How to Auto-Mount a VHD/VHDX File at Startup in Windows 10 and 8.1?

There are several methods available for configuring VHD/VHDX files in a Windows system to automatically mount virtual hard disk files during Windows startup. Here, we’ll outline the most effective manual method to ensure a hassle-free setup.

Auto-Mount VHD/VHDX using Computer Management for Windows 10 and 8.1:

Step 1: Open VHD/VHDX file location and create a text file with the following code:

select vdisk file=”C:\Users\poojac\Documents\Outlook Files\Auto-Mount.vhd”
attach vdisk
select part 1
assign letter=R
exit

Open VHD/VHDX file

Please note: The script is helpful for mounting the VHD/VHDX file, partition selection and assigning a letter to the specified drive.

Step 2: Press Windows + X keys from your keyboard and select Computer Management.select Computer Management

Step 3: Under System Tools, right-click on Task Scheduler and select Create Task
OR
You can simply select Create Task under Actions from the right-pane.Create Task under Actions

Step 4: Do the following for different tabs in the Create Task window.

Under General tab,

  • Type the Name of the task.
  • Type in a Description for a better understanding of the task in detail.
  • Select Run whether the user is logged on or not and Run with highest privileges.Name of the task

Under Triggers Tab:

  • Select the New button to set up a New Trigger.
  • Select At Startup for Begin the task.
  • Under Advanced Settings choose delay task for (time).set up a New Trigger

Under Actions Tab:

  • Create a new action by clicking on the New button
  • Select Action as Start a program, select the Program/Script and in the Add arguments(optional) enter:
    /s (followed by space) and enter the complete path and name of the script file (the text file created in step 4).Create a new action

Under Conditions Tab:

  • Uncheck the Stop if the computer switches to battery power.
  • Uncheck Start the task only if the computer is on AC power.
  • Click OK to create the task.Start the task

Step 5: Exit Computer Management and restart your computer to test the auto-mount method.

At the End:

This method is effective for all VHD or VHDX files, whether they are existing on your computer or newly created. However, if any of these VHD files become corrupted or damaged, auto-mounting may fail. To address VHD corruption and damage issues, you can opt for a specialized solution designed for VHD file recovery, such as Kernel for VHD Recovery software. This intelligent application excels at repairing and restoring complete data from VHD/VHDX files quickly and efficiently.

Kernel for VHD Recovery