Install to KVM VPS does not see hard disk - requires VirtIO

parisi

I am trying to install pfSense on a KVM VPS. The VPS requires VirtIO drivers for block devices (virtual harddisks) but I don't have them in the pfSense ISO. The pfSense notes say:

"Just run the default installation with a virtual harddisk in IDE mode and change the /boot/loader.conf.local and /etc/fstab files afterwards."

My VPS host does not seem to understand or allow me to do the installation in IDE mode.

How can I modify the ISO to have the VirtIO drivers for block devices enabled?

This is not my strong suit so please be gentle.

Thanks,
Paul.

jimp

Let the installer boot all the way to the menu, press 8 for the shell, and run:

kldload virtio_blk

Or before it even boots, go to a loader prompt and type:
load virtio_blk

Be sure to add the right lines to ensure it's loaded at each boot:
https://doc.pfsense.org/index.php/VirtIO_Driver_Support

parisi

Oh - thank you so much jimp!!!

So a follow on question - I am not savvy in this as you can tell.

If I go to 7. Escape to loader prompt and load that. I can load the virt_blk. But, how do I continue to install? Or how do I redisplay the menu.

jimp

type "boot" and it will continue from the loader prompt.

parisi

Ok - I tried that and it still did not see the disk…

Here is a screen recording of what I did.

http://www.screencast.com/t/F6Wt2TWhTd

I am sure I am doing something wrong.

Thanks for your help!

Paul.

parisi

Any thoughts on how I might be able to make this install. I did what was mentioned but the install routine does not see the disk controller.

Help!

Paul.