How to Enable or Disable Virtual Machine Platform in Windows 11

Enable Virtual Machine Platform Using Settings

You can enable Virtual Machine Platform using the Settings app ⚙️ in Windows 11 by opening the main menu, going to system options, and toggling the feature on without needing any advanced tools. This method works well if you prefer using the standard graphical interface rather than command-line tools.

1. Open the Windows Settings ⚙️ app. Click the Start menu ⊞ and select Settings. Or press Win+I.
2. Click System on the left side.
3. Select Advanced on the right to expand it.

4. Click on Virtual Workspaces to expand it.

5. Toggle the Virtual Machine Platform button on or off.
6. Close the Settings ⚙️ app.

Enable Virtual Machine Platform Using Control Panel

You can enable Virtual Machine Platform using the Control Panel by opening the optional features list and checking the correct box. This built-in Windows tool lets you turn system features on or off quickly without needing to download extra software.

1. Click Start and type "Turn Windows features on or off" in the search bar.
2. Select the result to open the Windows Features pane.

3. Scroll down and check the box next to Virtual Machine Platform to turn it on.
4. To turn it off, uncheck the box.

What happens next? You'll see a message asking you to restart your computer to complete the process.

5. Restart your computer.

After restarting, Virtual Machine Platform will be active. You can now create virtual machines and run different operating systems.

Enable Virtual Machine Platform Using Command Prompt

You can enable Virtual Machine Platform using Command Prompt by running a short text command with administrator rights. This method uses the built-in Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool to turn on the feature instantly.

1. [REQUIRES ADMIN PRIVILEGES] Click Start, search for Command Prompt, right-click on it, and select Run as administrator.

2. Copy and paste this command, then press Enter:

DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:"VirtualMachinePlatform"

To turn it off, run this command instead:

DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:"VirtualMachinePlatform"

3. Restart your computer.

Virtual Machine Platform should now be installed and enabled.

Enable Virtual Machine Platform Using PowerShell

You can enable Virtual Machine Platform using PowerShell by running an administrator window and executing a specific cmdlet. This approach provides a fast way to turn the feature on if you prefer scripting or modern command tools.

1. [REQUIRES ADMIN PRIVILEGES] Open the Start menu and search for PowerShell.

2. Type this command to enable Virtual Machine Platform:

Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "VirtualMachinePlatform"

To disable it, run this command instead:

Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "VirtualMachinePlatform"

3. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Summary

You can enable Virtual Machine Platform using four different methods in Windows 11 depending on your preference. These options include the Settings app, Control Panel, Command Prompt, and PowerShell, giving you full control over how you manage system features.

• Settings app — The easiest method for most users
• Control Panel — Uses the older Windows features panel
• Command Prompt — Requires admin privileges; use the DISM command
• PowerShell — Requires admin privileges; use the Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature command

Once enabled, you can create virtual machines and test different operating systems for development and testing purposes.