How can I make Windows Server 2012 running on KVM boot with virtio rather than IDE?

  1. Attach a new VirtIO disk to your VM, whether it is online or offline.
  2. When online, Windows will recognize the new disk and ask for drivers. Install virtIO drivers.
  3. After successful driver installation, shutdown your VM.
  4. With VM offline, remove the disk attached on step 1.
  5. With VM offline, change type of original VM disk to VirtIO.
  6. Boot your VM.

Windows won't complain, because you already have the drivers (installed on step 2).