How to Fix Hypervisor Error in Windows 11

The Hypervisor error in Windows 11 typically indicates a problem with virtualization settings, driver conflicts, or hardware incompatibility. Here’s a detailed guide on how to troubleshoot and fix this error.

Understanding the Hypervisor Error

Before diving into the solutions, understanding what the Hypervisor is can be helpful. The Hypervisor, also known as a Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM), is a software layer that enables virtualization. It allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single physical host. When the Hypervisor encounters an issue, it can prevent virtual machines or features like Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and Virtual Machine Platform from working correctly.

Common Causes

  • Virtualization Not Enabled: Hardware virtualization may not be enabled in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
  • Conflicting Hypervisors: Multiple hypervisors (e.g., Hyper-V, VMware, VirtualBox) might be conflicting.
  • Corrupted System Files: System files related to virtualization may be corrupt.
  • Driver Issues: Incompatible or outdated drivers can cause conflicts.
  • Windows Features: Certain Windows features may be interfering with the Hypervisor.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

  • Access BIOS/UEFI: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (Del, F2, F12, Esc – varies by manufacturer) to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup.
  • Locate Virtualization Settings: Look for settings related to virtualization. Common names include:
    • Intel Virtualization Technology (Intel VT-x)
    • AMD-V
    • SVM (Secure Virtual Machine)
  • Enable Virtualization: Enable the virtualization setting.
  • Save and Exit: Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart.

2. Disable Conflicting Hypervisors

Having multiple hypervisors enabled can cause conflicts. Disable any unnecessary ones.

  • Disable Hyper-V:
    • Open Control Panel -> Programs -> Turn Windows features on or off.
    • Uncheck Hyper-V and any related components.
    • Click OK and restart your computer.
  • Uninstall Third-Party Virtualization Software:
    • Uninstall any third-party virtualization software like VMware or VirtualBox if they are not needed. Use Control Panel -> Programs and Features to uninstall. Restart your computer afterward.

3. Disable Windows Features

Some Windows features can interfere with the Hypervisor. Try disabling Memory Integrity.

  • Disable Memory Integrity:
    • Open Windows Security -> Device security -> Core isolation.
    • Turn Memory integrity off. Restart your computer.
    • Note: Disabling Memory Integrity can reduce your system’s security. Only do this for troubleshooting purposes and re-enable it if the issue is resolved through other means.

4. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can cause the Hypervisor to malfunction. Use the System File Checker to scan and repair these files.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Search for “cmd”, right-click on “Command Prompt”, and select “Run as administrator”.
  • Run SFC Scan: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  • Wait for the Scan to Complete: The scan may take some time. Follow any on-screen instructions. Restart your computer after the scan is finished.

5. Update Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause issues with the Hypervisor.

  • Open Device Manager: Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager”.
  • Update Drivers: Check for driver updates, especially for:
    • Processors
    • Chipset
    • Network Adapters
  • Update Manually or Automatically:
    • Automatically: Right-click on the device and select “Update driver” -> “Search automatically for drivers”.
    • Manually: Download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website and install them.
  • Restart your computer after updating the drivers.

6. Check for Windows Updates

Ensure your Windows 11 installation is up to date.

  • Open Settings: Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Windows Update: Click on “Windows Update” in the left sidebar.
  • Check for Updates: Click on “Check for updates” and install any available updates. Restart your computer after the updates are installed.

7. Reset Network Settings

Sometimes network configuration issues can interfere with virtualization.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Search for “cmd”, right-click on “Command Prompt”, and select “Run as administrator”.
  • Run Network Reset Commands:
    • netsh winsock reset
    • netsh int ip reset
  • Restart your computer.

8. Check Event Viewer

Event Viewer can provide valuable information about the Hypervisor error.

  • Open Event Viewer: Search for “Event Viewer” in the Start menu and open it.
  • Navigate to Windows Logs: Expand “Windows Logs” and select “System”.
  • Filter for Hypervisor Errors: Look for errors related to the Hypervisor. Analyze the error messages to identify potential causes.

9. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help identify if a third-party application is causing the Hypervisor error.

  • Open System Configuration: Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to Services Tab: Check “Hide all Microsoft services” and click “Disable all”.
  • Go to Startup Tab: Click “Open Task Manager”. Disable all startup items.
  • Apply and Restart: Click “Apply” and “OK” in System Configuration. Restart your computer.
  • Troubleshoot: If the Hypervisor error is resolved after a clean boot, enable services and startup items one by one to identify the culprit.

Conclusion

Fixing the Hypervisor error in Windows 11 involves systematically troubleshooting virtualization settings, drivers, and system files. By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue, enabling virtualization features to work correctly.