How to Enable or Disable CPU Virtualization in UEFI BIOS on Windows PC
CPU virtualization in your PC’s UEFI BIOS is a motherboard setting that lets your processor run virtual machines, Android emulators, and tools like Windows Subsystem for Linux. Intel processors call this feature Intel VT-x, while AMD processors call it AMD-V. Without this hardware setting turned on, virtual software cannot run properly on your system.
- Virtual machines Virtualization-based Security (VBS)
- Windows Sandbox
- Core Isolation Memory Integrity
- Hyper-V
- Windows Hypervisor Platform
- Virtual Machine Platform
- Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
You can check if CPU virtualization is already on by opening Task Manager . Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc on your keyboard to open it.
Enter your computer’s UEFI BIOS settings during startup by pressing a specific key like F2 or DEL. Navigate to advanced CPU settings and find “Intel (VMX) Virtualization Technology” or “SVM Mode” to enable or disable it. Save changes to exit.
How to Change CPU Virtualization Settings
You can enable cpu virtualization by restarting your computer and opening the UEFI BIOS setup screen using your manufacturer’s specific shortcut key like F2 or Del. Once you find the processor settings menu, locate the virtualization toggle, switch it to your preferred setting, and save your changes before booting back into Windows.
- Restart your computer and go into the UEFI BIOS settings. This usually involves pressing a specific key (like F2, F10, F12, or DEL) right after you turn on your PC, before Windows starts loading. Your computer screen might tell you which key to press.
- Look for a tab named Advanced. Once you find it, click on it. Then, find and click on CPU Configuration.
Now, you’ll need to make a change based on whether your computer has an Intel or AMD processor. See the screenshots below for examples.
- If you have an Intel CPU: Find the setting called Intel (VMX) Virtualization Technology. Turn it on or off depending on what you need.
- If you have an AMD CPU: Find the setting called SVM Mode. Turn it on or off depending on what you need.
- Go to the Exit tab. Click on Save Changes & Reset.
- A confirmation box will appear. Click OK to save your changes and restart your computer.
References:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-US/Windows/Experience/enable-virtualization-on-windows
Summary
You can quickly enable cpu virtualization by entering your computer's UEFI BIOS menu during startup and locating the processor settings. Look for options labeled Intel VMX or AMD SVM mode, switch the setting on or off based on your needs, and save your changes before exiting the BIOS.
How to disable virtualization in BIOS UEFI?
Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. Then look for virtualization technology in system settings or advanced settings. Set the virtualization technology option to disable or off. Save the settings and restart your computer.
Should you disable CPU virtualization?
You should only disable cpu virtualization if you never run virtual machines, Android emulators, or Windows Subsystem for Linux on your PC. Keeping this feature turned on does not slow down your everyday computer use, but turning it off will stop any software that relies on virtual hardware from working properly.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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