Ever tried running a virtual machine or using emulation software on your Windows 11 PC only to see an error saying “hardware virtualization is disabled”? Don’t worry — you’re not alone! Hardware virtualization is a powerful feature that allows your system to run virtual machines smoothly using tools like Hyper-V, VirtualBox, or VMware.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to turn on hardware virtualization in Windows 11 step by step, explain what it does, why it matters, and how to check if it’s already enabled.
💡 What Is Hardware Virtualization?
Hardware virtualization is a CPU feature that allows your computer to create and run virtual machines (VMs). In simple terms, it lets your PC act like several computers running at once — great for testing, development, or using multiple operating systems.
Modern processors from Intel and AMD include virtualization technology:
- Intel calls it Intel VT-x (Virtualization Technology).
- AMD calls it AMD-V (Virtualization).
⚙️ Why Enable Hardware Virtualization in Windows 11?
Here are some key reasons why turning it on can be beneficial:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Run Virtual Machines | Use Hyper-V, VMware, or VirtualBox to run other OSes like Linux or older versions of Windows. |
| Better Performance | Virtualization enhances system resource allocation, making VMs faster and more stable. |
| Developer-Friendly | Developers can safely test apps in isolated environments. |
| Security Features | Some Windows 11 security tools (like Memory Integrity and Windows Sandbox) require virtualization. |
🧠 How to Check If Hardware Virtualization Is Enabled in Windows 11
Before enabling it, let’s confirm whether your system already supports and has it turned on.
✅ Method 1: Check via Task Manager
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click on the Performance tab.
- Select CPU from the left panel.
- On the bottom right, look for Virtualization: Enabled or Disabled.
If it says “Enabled,” you’re good to go! If it says “Disabled,” continue reading to enable it.
✅ Method 2: Use Command Prompt
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
- Type the following command and hit Enter:
systeminfo - Look for the line that says “Hyper-V Requirements.”
If you see “Virtualization Enabled In Firmware: No”, it means it’s turned off in BIOS and needs to be enabled manually.
🧩 How to Enable Hardware Virtualization in Windows 11 (Step-by-Step)
To turn on hardware virtualization, you’ll need to access your BIOS or UEFI firmware settings. Here’s how to do it safely:
🪟 Step 1: Restart Your PC and Enter BIOS/UEFI
- Click the Start menu → select Settings → System → Recovery.
- Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
- After your PC restarts, select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings → Restart.
Alternatively, you can press a key like F2, F10, F12, or DEL immediately after turning on your computer (key varies by manufacturer).
⚙️ Step 2: Locate Virtualization Settings
Once you’re in the BIOS/UEFI interface:
- Use your arrow keys or mouse to navigate.
- Look for the Advanced, CPU Configuration, or System Configuration tab (names vary by brand).
- Find an option named Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) or AMD-V.
🧭 Step 3: Enable Virtualization
- Highlight the Virtualization Technology option.
- Change the setting to Enabled.
- Press F10 (or follow on-screen prompts) to Save and Exit the BIOS.
Your computer will restart with hardware virtualization enabled.
🧰 Optional: Enable Hyper-V in Windows 11
Once virtualization is enabled in BIOS, you can activate Hyper-V, Windows 11’s built-in virtualization platform.
Steps to Enable Hyper-V:
- Press Windows + S, type Windows Features, and click Turn Windows features on or off.
- In the window that appears, check the box for Hyper-V (and related components).
- Click OK and restart your PC.
You can now create and manage virtual machines natively within Windows 11.
🧩 Alternative: Enable Virtualization Using PowerShell
If you prefer command-line tools, PowerShell can help.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → choose Windows Terminal (Admin).
- Type this command:
dism.exe /Online /Enable-Feature:Microsoft-Hyper-V /All - Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC.
🧱 How to Verify Virtualization Is Working
After enabling it, confirm that virtualization is active.
Method 1: Task Manager
Open Task Manager → Performance → CPU → check that Virtualization: Enabled is displayed.
Method 2: Hyper-V Manager
If you have Hyper-V installed:
- Open Hyper-V Manager.
- Try creating a new virtual machine.
If the VM runs successfully, virtualization is working.
⚠️ What If You Can’t Find Virtualization in BIOS?
If you don’t see any virtualization options:
- Update your BIOS/UEFI firmware. Visit your PC manufacturer’s website for the latest update.
- Check CPU compatibility. Not all older processors support Intel VT-x or AMD-V.
- Disable Windows Core Isolation. Sometimes, “Memory Integrity” under Windows Security → Device Security → Core Isolation may block Hyper-V.
- Look under different menu names. Some BIOS menus list it as “SVM Mode” (AMD) or “Virtualization Extensions.”
🧮 Table: Virtualization Key Names by Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | BIOS/UEFI Key | Virtualization Setting Name |
|---|---|---|
| Intel | DEL / F2 | Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) |
| AMD | F2 / F10 | SVM Mode / AMD-V |
| HP | ESC / F10 | Virtualization Technology |
| Dell | F2 | Intel Virtualization Technology |
| ASUS | DEL / F2 | SVM Mode or Intel VT-x |
| Lenovo | F1 / F2 | Intel Virtualization Technology |
🧠 Tips for Optimal Virtual Machine Performance
- Allocate enough RAM: Give each VM at least 2 GB of memory.
- Use SSD storage: Virtual machines run significantly faster on SSDs.
- Enable VT-d (if available): Improves I/O performance for virtualization.
- Keep BIOS and drivers updated: Ensures compatibility and stability.
- Use Hyper-V Manager or VirtualBox tools: Manage resources efficiently.
🪄 Benefits of Enabling Virtualization in Windows 11
Enabling virtualization opens up advanced capabilities:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Windows Sandbox | Test unknown apps safely in an isolated environment. |
| VirtualBox & VMware | Run multiple operating systems at once. |
| Android Emulators | Improve performance in BlueStacks or Nox Player. |
| Security Tools | Required for Credential Guard, Core Isolation, etc. |
🧩 Troubleshooting: Virtualization Still Disabled?
If virtualization doesn’t enable even after BIOS changes:
- Update BIOS firmware.
- Disable Hyper-V if using VirtualBox.
- Some third-party VMs conflict with Hyper-V.
- Run this command in Command Prompt (Admin):
bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
- Reboot and check again.
🏁 Conclusion
Turning on hardware virtualization in Windows 11 unlocks a world of possibilities — from running multiple operating systems to boosting performance in virtual environments. Whether you’re a developer, gamer, or casual user experimenting with emulators, enabling this feature gives your PC more flexibility and power.
Take a few minutes to check your BIOS, enable the option, and enjoy smoother virtual machine experiences!
❓ FAQs About Hardware Virtualization in Windows 11
1. How do I know if my CPU supports virtualization?
Check your processor model on Intel or AMD’s official website — most modern CPUs support it.
2. Can I enable virtualization without BIOS access?
No, virtualization must be turned on through BIOS/UEFI settings.
3. Is virtualization safe to enable?
Yes, it’s completely safe. It’s a built-in feature meant for better performance and isolation.
4. Why can’t I find Hyper-V on Windows 11 Home?
Hyper-V is only available in Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. You can use VirtualBox instead.
5. Does enabling virtualization slow down my PC?
No. It doesn’t affect normal performance unless a virtual machine is actively running.
🧾 Summary: Key Takeaways
- Hardware virtualization lets your PC run virtual machines and emulators efficiently.
- Check status in Task Manager → CPU → Virtualization.
- Enable it via BIOS → Advanced/CPU Settings → Virtualization Technology → Enable.
- Activate Hyper-V or other virtualization software after reboot.
- Keep firmware updated for stability and compatibility.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily enable virtualization and take full advantage of Windows 11’s advanced computing capabilities.