Another reliable method involves using UUPdump (uupdump.net) to generate a Windows 10 ARM ISO from official Microsoft update files. After downloading the scripts, run uup_download_windows.cmd and let it complete — the process will generate a usable ISO file.
Mac users running M1/M2/M3/M4 chips can use QCOW2 images inside QEMU-based hypervisors (like UTM) to run Windows environments at near-native speeds.
Setting up Windows 10 on ARM with QEMU and the QCOW2 format is a sophisticated yet powerful technique. While the performance won't match running Windows natively on x86 hardware, it provides a unique and invaluable environment for testing software, running legacy applications, or experimenting with the ARM version of Windows. The QCOW2 format's snapshot and dynamic allocation capabilities make it an ideal companion to QEMU for this purpose, offering flexibility and advanced management features. windows 10 arm qcow2
Install Windows as normal and wait for the reboot.
Key features:
QCOW2 shines here:
As of 2025, Windows 11 ARM is the active development target. However, due to lower system requirements and better legacy x86 compatibility in some edge cases. The exact same QCOW2 workflow applies to Windows 11 ARM64. Another reliable method involves using UUPdump (uupdump
In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating a Windows 10 on ARM virtual machine using QEMU and QCOW2.
