How to Fix IP Link Bridge Error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon

Learn how to fix the IP link bridge error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon, a common issue that prevents network connectivity in virtual machines.

Problem

If you are running Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop on a Mac with Apple Silicon, you may encounter an error when trying to create a network bridge using the ip link command. The error message says:

RTNETLINK answers: Operation not supported

This error prevents you from setting up a network bridge between your virtual machine and your host machine, which can affect your network connectivity and performance.

In this article, we will explain what causes this error and how to fix it using a simple workaround.

What Causes the IP Link Bridge Error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon?

The IP link bridge error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon is caused by a compatibility issue between the Linux kernel and the Parallels hypervisor. The Linux kernel expects the network interface to support certain features that are not available on the Parallels virtual network adapter. Specifically, the Linux kernel tries to enable the hairpin_mode feature on the network interface, which allows packets to be sent back to the same interface they came from. However, the Parallels virtual network adapter does not support this feature, and returns an error when the Linux kernel tries to enable it.

How to Fix the IP Link Bridge Error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon?

The workaround for fixing the IP link bridge error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon is to disable the hairpin_mode feature on the network interface before creating the network bridge.

Step 1: This can be done by using the following command:

sudo ip link set dev <interface> hairpin off

where <interface> is the name of your network interface, such as eth0 or enp0s3. You can check the name of your network interface by using the command ip link show.

Step 2: After disabling the hairpin_mode feature, you can create the network bridge as usual, using the command:

sudo ip link add name <bridge> type bridge

where <bridge> is the name of your network bridge, such as br0 or br1.

Step 3: You can then add your network interface to the bridge using the command:

sudo ip link set dev <interface> master <bridge>

Step 4: You can verify that the network bridge has been created successfully by using the command ip link show <bridge>.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: What is a network bridge and why do I need it?

Answer: A network bridge is a virtual device that connects two or more network segments together. It allows devices on different network segments to communicate with each other as if they were on the same network. You may need a network bridge if you want to share network resources between your virtual machine and your host machine, such as files, printers, or internet access.

Question: What is Parallels Desktop and why do I need it?

Answer: Parallels Desktop is a software that allows you to run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems on your Mac without rebooting. It creates a virtual machine that emulates a physical computer, where you can install and run any operating system you want. You may need Parallels Desktop if you want to use applications or features that are not available on your Mac, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, or gaming.

Question: What is Apple Silicon and why do I need it?

Answer: Apple Silicon is the name of the custom-designed chips that power the latest Mac models, such as the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac. These chips are based on the ARM architecture, which is different from the Intel architecture that was used in previous Mac models. Apple Silicon offers better performance, efficiency, and security than Intel chips, as well as seamless integration with other Apple devices and services.

Summary

In this article, we have learned how to fix the IP link bridge error on Ubuntu in Parallels Apple Silicon, a common issue that prevents network connectivity in virtual machines. We have explained what causes this error and how to fix it using a simple workaround. We have also answered some frequently asked questions about network bridges, Parallels Desktop, and Apple Silicon. We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Parallels, Ubuntu, or Apple. We are not responsible for any damages or losses that may result from following the instructions or using the software mentioned in this article. Use them at your own risk and discretion.