You can change the settings of a virtual network adapter that is currently used by a virtual machine.

Prerequisites

Familiarize yourself with the network configuration types. See Understanding Common Networking Configurations.

Procedure

  1. Select the virtual machine and select VM > Settings.
  2. On the Hardware tab, select the virtual network adapter.
  3. Select the virtual network adapter type.

    You cannot select a custom network or LAN segment for a shared virtual machine. For a remote virtual machine, you must select a custom network.

    Option

    Description

    Bridged

    The virtual machine is connected to the network by using the network adapter on the host system. The virtual machine has a unique identity on the network, separate from and unrelated to the host system.

    NAT

    The virtual machine and the host system share a single network identity that is not visible on the external network. When the virtual machine sends a request to access a network resource, it appears to the network resource as if the request is coming from the host system.

    Host-only

    The virtual machine and the host virtual network adapter are connected to a private Ethernet network. The network is completely contained within the host system.

    Custom

    Select a custom network from the drop-down menu. Although VMnet0, VMnet1, and VMnet8 might be available in this list, these networks are usually used for bridged, host-only, and NAT networks.

    LAN segment

    Select a LAN segment from the drop-down menu. A LAN segment is a private network that is shared by other virtual machines.
  4. Click OK to save your changes.
  5. Verify that the guest operating system is configured to use an appropriate IP address on the new network.
    1. If the virtual machine is using DHCP, release and renew the lease.
    2. If the IP address is set statically, verify that the guest operating system has an address on the correct virtual network.