Microsoft Windows 2008 R2 - HyperV Cloning a VM

Cloning HyperV Machines, Shut down existing original VM and then export the existing machine after activation.

Open notepad and search and replace under the Computer Configuration to replace with new machine Name ( Clone.vhd -> Clone1.vhd ). Additionally change the clone1.vhd path back to your current VM home directory.

Rename the VHD file clone1.vhd in VHD Directory.

Import Machine with new ID, and Copy VM Check box Checked.

Simply put, you now have a new VM with identical settings.

I have tested this only on one fully updated Windows Server 2008 R2 before applications/services installation; if you preinstall to many of your custom applications your results may vary.