How to Enable Virtual Machine Platform on Windows 11: A Guide

By / September 15, 2025

Virtualization is one of the most powerful features of modern operating systems. On Windows 11, the Virtual Machine Platform (VMP) is an optional component that enables virtualization-based technologies. It’s essential if you want to run Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL 2), use Hyper-V features, or run virtual machines smoothly.

If you’re wondering how to enable Virtual Machine Platform on Windows 11, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.

What Is Virtual Machine Platform (VMP) in Windows 11?

The Virtual Machine Platform is a Windows feature that provides underlying virtualization support for:

  • WSL 2 (Windows Subsystem for Linux 2)

  • Virtualization-based security (VBS)

  • Hyper-V isolation for containers

  • Running virtual machines more efficiently

Without enabling it, many virtualization features won’t work properly.

System Requirements for Enabling VMP

Before enabling Virtual Machine Platform, make sure your PC meets these requirements:

  • 64-bit CPU with virtualization support (Intel VT-x or AMD-V)

  • 4 GB RAM or more

  • Windows 11 (any edition)

  • Virtualization enabled in BIOS/UEFI

Step 1: Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

If virtualization is disabled at the BIOS/UEFI level, you can’t enable VMP.

  1. Restart your computer and press the BIOS/UEFI access key (F2, F10, F12, ESC, or DEL) depending on your device manufacturer.

  2. Look for Virtualization Technology (VT-x, Intel VT-d, or AMD-V / SVM Mode).

  3. Enable it.

  4. Save changes and restart your computer.

💡 Tip: You can check if virtualization is enabled by opening Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) > Performance tab > CPU. Look for Virtualization: Enabled.

Step 2: Enable Virtual Machine Platform via Windows Features

The easiest way to turn on VMP is through Windows Features.

  1. Press Windows + S, type Windows Features, and click Turn Windows features on or off.

  2. Scroll down and check the box for Virtual Machine Platform.

  3. (Optional) Also check Windows Hypervisor Platform if you plan to run virtual machines.

  4. Click OK and let Windows install the components.

  5. Restart your PC to apply changes.

Step 3: Enable Virtual Machine Platform via PowerShell

If you prefer commands, you can use PowerShell.

  1. Right-click the Start Menu and select Windows Terminal (Admin).

  2. Enter the following command:

dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart

  1. Press Enter and wait for the process to finish.

  2. Restart your PC.

Step 4: Verify if VMP Is Enabled

After rebooting, check whether Virtual Machine Platform is active:

  1. Open PowerShell as administrator.

  2. Run:

Get-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName VirtualMachinePlatform

  1. If the state shows Enabled, then you’re good to go!

When Do You Need Virtual Machine Platform?

You should enable VMP if you want to:

  • Install and run WSL 2 (Linux distributions on Windows).

  • Use Docker Desktop with Windows containers.

  • Run emulators (like Android Studio Emulator).

  • Enhance virtualization security with VBS.

Troubleshooting: Virtual Machine Platform Not Enabling

If you can’t enable VMP, try these fixes:

  • Check BIOS/UEFI virtualization settings (Intel VT-x/AMD-V).

  • Update Windows 11 to the latest version.

  • Run SFC and DISM scans to repair system files:

    sfc /scannow
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  • Ensure Hyper-V isn’t conflicting (if you don’t need Hyper-V, disable it via Windows Features).

Conclusion

Enabling Virtual Machine Platform on Windows 11 unlocks powerful virtualization features like WSL 2, Docker, and virtual machine support. Whether you enable it through Windows Features or PowerShell, the process is simple and quick. Once enabled, you can explore advanced virtualization tools and make the most of your Windows 11 device.

FAQs

1. Is Virtual Machine Platform available on Windows 11 Home?
Yes, VMP can be enabled on all editions, including Home, Pro, and Enterprise.

2. Do I need Hyper-V for Virtual Machine Platform?
No, VMP can work independently, but some virtualization tools benefit from Hyper-V.

3. Will enabling VMP slow down my PC?
Not significantly. It only uses resources when running virtual machines.

4. Can I disable Virtual Machine Platform later?
Yes, simply uncheck it in Windows Features or use PowerShell with the /disable-feature command.

5. Why is Virtual Machine Platform required for WSL 2?
Because WSL 2 relies on virtualization to run a full Linux kernel inside Windows.

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