I am trying to install Windows Server 2003 on a Dell server using Virtual Media.  Whether I use an ISO that is shared or drive redirect the actual installation CD, the installation process always stops after the drivers load.

Windows Server 2003 had an issue with the hard drive controller on some Dell servers. The installer would not recognize the hard drives and the installation would halt. This not only affects Windows installations over Spider Virtual Media, but any installation media, including external USB optical drives.

In order to install on one of these servers, you need to use the Windows 2003 SP2 (also known as R2) or higher installation media. It possesses the necessary driver fixes to allow the Windows installer to recognize the hard disk controller on the affected Dell servers.

[Originally Published On: 06/05/2009 02:20 PM]