parallels desktop 12 network adapter keeps disconnecting

Troubleshooting the Persistent Issue of Disappearing Network Adapters in Parallels Desktop 12

The convenience and flexibility offered by virtualization software like Parallels Desktop make it a popular choice among Mac users who also need to run Windows applications on their machines. However, as with any complex piece of technology, occasional technical hiccups can arise – one such issue being the seemingly inexplicable disappearance or frequent disconnection of network adapters within a Parallells Virtual Machine (VM).

In this article, we will delve into some common causes and practical solutions for resolving this frustrating problem in the context of Parallels Desktop 12.

Common Causes

Before diving headfirst into troubleshooting techniques, it's essential to understand potential reasons behind such behavior. Here are a few possible culprits:

1. Misconfigured Network Settings: In many cases, issues with network connectivity within a VM can be traced back to incorrect or incomplete configuration of the virtual machine's network settings.

2. Conflicting Driver Versions: Outdated or conflicting versions of drivers for your physical network adapters could lead to compatibility problems when used within a Parallels VM.

3. Overactive System Updates: Sometimes, overly aggressive updates from Apple or third-party software can interfere with system stability and cause unexpected behavior in virtualized environments.

Troubleshooting Steps

Now that we've identified some potential causes let's move onto practical steps you can take to resolve this issue:

### Step 1: Check Virtual Machine Network Settings

Firstly, ensure your Parallels VM is properly configured for network access. To do so:

1. Launch the Parallels Desktop application.

2. Click on 'Virtual Machines' in the left-hand sidebar (or use Command + Shift + Spacebar).

3. Select the affected virtual machine from the list.

4. Right-click anywhere within the window and select 'Settings...' or press ⌥+⇧+⏎.

### Step 1a: Verify Network Adapter Configuration

Within this dialog box, navigate to the 'Hardware' tab:

- Ensure that both 'Enable network' and 'Use Mac's built-in Ethernet/Radeon/Intel(R) adapter (depending on your actual hardware)' are checked.

- If you're using a Thunderbolt or USB-to-Ethernet adapter for internet access within Windows, make sure it is also enabled under the respective section.

### Step 2: Update Parallels and Guest Operating System

Next, ensure that both Parallels Desktop itself as well as your guest operating system (in this case, likely Windows) are running with the latest available updates installed:

1. Launch 'Software Update' within your Mac's Applications folder.

2. Click on 'Update Now'.

3. After all updates have finished downloading and installing restart your machine.

### Step 3: Reinstall Network Adapters

Sometimes simply restarting both Parallels itself as well as any running virtual machines may resolve connectivity issues:

1. Quit the affected VM by clicking its close button or pressing ⌘+⌃+⇧+Spacebar.

2. Select 'Restart' from the contextual menu that appears.

### Step 4: Reset System Preferences to Default

If none of these steps have resolved your issue, you may need to resort to a more drastic measure:

1. Quit all running applications including Parallels Desktop and any open virtual machines.

2. Restart your Mac while holding down ⌃+⌘ + ⌥ (Command+Option) keys simultaneously.

### Step 5: Reinstall Parallels Desktop

As last resort, you may need to completely uninstall and re-install the latest version of Parallels Desktop:

1. Launch 'About This Mac' from your Applications folder.

2. Click on 'Quit Now'.

3. Navigate to /Applications/Parallels.localized/.

4. Move both 'Parallels Desktop' folders (both English and localized versions if applicable) to Trash.

5. Empty trash.

The disappearance or frequent disconnection of network adapters within a Parallels VM can be frustrating, especially when working on critical projects with tight deadlines looming large. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above – which cover everything from basic configuration checks through more radical measures like complete reinstallation – you should be able to resolve this issue once and for all.

Remember that keeping your operating systems up-to-date is key (pun intended) in ensuring smooth operation of both physical as well virtualized environments. If after trying these troubleshooting techniques the problem persists, it may be wise to reach out directly to Parallels support team or Apple's own technical forums for further assistance and guidance.

Parallels desktop 12 network adapter keeps disconnecting