Virtual Device Serial0 Will Start Disconnected

Which version are you running? (e.g., ESXi 8.0, Workstation 17)

The VM is connected to a named pipe that isn't currently active.

The error indicates that your VM is configured to look for a serial (COM) port on your physical computer, but it can’t find one to "handshake" with. Because the VM can't establish this link, it simply starts with that specific virtual device disabled. Common Causes The "ThinPrint" Legacy: virtual device serial0 will start disconnected

: If the VM properties dictate using an absolute physical COM port (like COM1 or /dev/ttyS0 ) on the host machine, the hypervisor looks for that hardware during initialization. If your modern laptop or desktop lacks an actual serial interface, the mapping fails immediately.

To help narrow down the best solution for your setup, could you let me know you are using (Workstation, Player, or ESXi) and what operating system is running inside the virtual machine? AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more Share public link Which version are you running

This warning message (or log entry) typically appears in products (like VMware Workstation, Player, or ESXi). It indicates that the virtual machine is configured to have a serial port, but the host computer cannot connect to it—usually because the designated file or device path does not exist yet.

: When connecting two routers via their serial interfaces, ensure you have selected the correct cable type. Use the "Manual" cable connection and pick a "Serial DCE" cable for the device that will provide clocking. Because the VM can't establish this link, it

For debugging between two VMs, ensure the pipe name (e.g., \\.\pipe\com_1 ) matches on both ends.

Older enterprise software that relies on a serial connection for hardware dongles, automated machinery, or specialized modems will fail to function.