Error: "Failed to extract kernel from installation source".

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Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 10

Situation

While preparing a new Xen virtual machine through YAST in paravirtualized mode you get the following ERROR: Failed to extract kernel from installation source. Please check that your installation source is accessible.

Resolution

This error message basically means YaST is not able to find a modified Xen kernel on the installation media/source for the operating system which is going to be installed.

A modified Xen kernel is required for DomU guests running in paravirtualized mode.

The shipping version of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server supports only SLES 10 as a DomU (guest) in paravirtualized mode.

For the YaST Xen module (running in the Dom0 (host)) to operate, it needs access to the installation media for SLES 10.

The SLES 10 installation files for a SLES 10 DomU VM can be located at one of the following:

OS installation program located on CD/DVD physical media or ISO image files.
OS installation program configured as an installation source on the network.
Disk image, partition, disk, or other type of block device with an already-installed operating system.

Disclaimer

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.