How to Disable Virtualization in BIOS on Windows 11: A Guide

By / September 16, 2025

Virtualization is a powerful feature in Windows 11 that allows you to run virtual machines, use Hyper-V, and support advanced security features like Windows Sandbox and Core Isolation. But sometimes, you may need to disable virtualization in BIOS on Windows 11 — for example, when facing performance issues, software incompatibility, or gaming problems.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explain what virtualization is, why you might disable it, and how to turn it off in BIOS/UEFI settings safely. We’ll also cover alternative methods, troubleshooting tips, and FAQs.

📌 Summary: Key Takeaways

  • Virtualization allows Windows 11 to run virtual machines and advanced features.
  • You can disable it directly in the BIOS/UEFI firmware settings.
  • Common BIOS keys include F2, F10, Delete, Esc (varies by manufacturer).
  • If BIOS isn’t accessible, you can turn off Hyper-V or related features via Windows settings.
  • Disabling virtualization may help with game performance, software conflicts, or security issues.

What Is Virtualization in Windows 11?

Virtualization is a hardware-level technology (Intel VT-x, AMD-V) that lets one computer act like multiple machines. Windows 11 uses it for:

  • Hyper-V (virtual machines)
  • Windows Sandbox
  • Core Isolation / Memory Integrity
  • Android Subsystem for Windows 11 (WSA)

While useful, some apps (like older games, emulators, or security tools) don’t run properly if virtualization is enabled.

Why Disable Virtualization?

You might want to disable virtualization in Windows 11 if:

  • 🎮 Gaming issues: Some anti-cheat engines block games when virtualization is enabled.
  • 🖥️ Performance problems: Virtualization can cause high CPU usage.
  • ⚙️ Software conflicts: Certain apps (like VirtualBox, VMware) may not run correctly alongside Hyper-V.
  • 🔒 Security troubleshooting: To check if Core Isolation is affecting system performance.

Method 1: Disable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

The most direct way to disable virtualization is from the BIOS or UEFI firmware.

Steps:

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. As soon as your computer powers on, press the BIOS key repeatedly (before Windows logo appears).
    • Common keys: F2, F10, F12, Esc, Delete.
    • Some laptops may show a Boot Menu → choose BIOS Setup.
  3. In BIOS/UEFI, look for Advanced / CPU Configuration / Security settings.
  4. Find Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) or AMD-V.
  5. Change the setting to Disabled.
  6. Save changes and exit BIOS (usually F10).

✅ Your system will restart with virtualization disabled.

Method 2: Disable Virtualization via Windows Features

If you don’t want to enter BIOS, you can disable Hyper-V and related features.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type optionalfeatures, and hit Enter.
  2. In Windows Features, uncheck the following:
    • Hyper-V
    • Virtual Machine Platform
    • Windows Hypervisor Platform
  3. Click OK and restart your computer.

This won’t disable hardware-level virtualization, but it will prevent Windows from using it.

Method 3: Disable Virtualization via Command Prompt

Advanced users can turn off Hyper-V using commands.

Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type: 
    bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
  3. Restart your PC.

To re-enable later, run:

bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype auto

Method 4: Disable Core Isolation / Memory Integrity

Sometimes, disabling Core Isolation is enough.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security.
  2. Click Device Security.
  3. Under Core isolation, click Core isolation details.
  4. Toggle Memory integrity off.
  5. Restart your PC.

BIOS Keys by Manufacturer

Here’s a quick table of BIOS/UEFI keys:

Manufacturer BIOS Key
Dell F2 or F12
HP Esc or F10
Lenovo F1 or F2
ASUS F2 or Del
Acer F2 or Del
MSI Del
Samsung F2
Toshiba F2 or F12

Troubleshooting: Can’t Find Virtualization in BIOS?

  • Ensure your CPU supports virtualization (Intel VT-x or AMD-V).
  • Look under different BIOS sections: Advanced, CPU Features, Security, System Configuration.
  • Update your BIOS if options are missing.
  • Check if your PC is locked by the manufacturer (some prebuilt systems hide virtualization settings).

Risks of Disabling Virtualization

Before you disable it, consider the downsides:

  • ❌ You can’t run Hyper-V or virtual machines.
  • ❌ Features like Windows Sandbox or WSA (Android apps) won’t work.
  • ❌ Some security protections will be turned off.

Should You Disable Virtualization?

  • If you’re a gamer or casual user, disabling virtualization may improve compatibility.
  • If you use virtual machines or advanced features, keep it enabled.

Pro Tips

  • Use Win + R → msinfo32 to check if virtualization is enabled.
  • Switch back easily: just re-enable virtualization in BIOS.
  • Save your current BIOS settings before making changes.

Conclusion

Disabling virtualization in BIOS on Windows 11 is simple once you know where to look. Whether you do it via BIOS/UEFI settings, Windows Features, or Command Prompt, you now have multiple methods. Just remember: turning it off may boost gaming compatibility but disables features like Hyper-V and Android apps. Choose based on your needs.

FAQs

1. How do I know if virtualization is enabled in Windows 11?

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → open Task Manager → Performance tab → check Virtualization status.

2. Can I disable virtualization without BIOS?

Yes, you can turn off Hyper-V and related features via Windows Features or Command Prompt.

3. Does disabling virtualization improve gaming performance?

In some cases, yes. Especially with anti-cheat protected games.

4. What happens if I disable virtualization in BIOS?

Windows will no longer use Hyper-V, Sandbox, or WSA. Virtual machines won’t run.

5. Can I re-enable virtualization later?

Yes. Just return to BIOS/UEFI and set Intel VT-x/AMD-V back to Enabled.

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