How to Fix “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)”?

In the realm of virtualization, the concept of hardware-assisted virtualization has revolutionized the way we interact with virtual machines (VMs). This technology, known as Intel VT-x (Virtualization Technology for x86), empowers modern processors to enhance the performance and efficiency of virtualization environments. However, encountering an error message stating “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” can be a frustrating roadblock for individuals seeking to utilize virtualization features.

This error message, often encountered while attempting to launch a virtual machine, signifies a problem with the availability or configuration of the VT-x technology within the system. It indicates that the hardware’s virtualization capabilities are either disabled or not supported by the underlying processor. Resolving this issue requires a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to the error and the corresponding solutions to enable VT-x functionality.

In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error and explore various methods to rectify it. We will examine common scenarios where this error arises, including incompatible hardware, outdated BIOS settings, or conflicting software configurations. Additionally, we will discuss steps to enable VT-x in the system’s BIOS or UEFI firmware, providing detailed instructions tailored to different computer manufacturers.

By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of the VT-x technology, its significance in virtualization, and how to troubleshoot the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error effectively. Let’s embark on this journey to unlock the full potential of your virtualization experience. So, here is how to fix VT-x is Not Available but first what causes it?

What causes the “VT-x is not available” to appear?

The “VT-x is not available” error, specifically indicated by the code “VERR_VMX_NO_VMX,” typically occurs when there is a problem with the availability or configuration of the VT-x (Virtualization Technology for x86) feature in the system. The following factors can cause this error to appear:

1. Incompatible Hardware: Not all processors support VT-x technology. Older or lower-end CPUs may lack this feature altogether. To utilize VT-x, your processor must have the necessary virtualization extensions. If your CPU does not support VT-x, you will encounter the “VT-x is not available” error.

2. BIOS/UEFI Settings: The system’s BIOS or UEFI firmware controls various hardware settings, including VT-x. If the VT-x option is disabled or not supported in the BIOS/UEFI settings, attempting to use VT-x for virtualization will result in the error. In such cases, enabling VT-x in the firmware settings is necessary.

3. Hyper-V Conflict: Hyper-V is a virtualization technology provided by Microsoft for running virtual machines on Windows systems. In some instances, having Hyper-V enabled can conflict with other virtualization software, such as VirtualBox or VMware, which rely on VT-x. This conflict prevents the utilization of VT-x and triggers the error message.

4. Other Virtualization Software: Certain virtualization software may interfere with the VT-x feature. If another program or driver is already utilizing VT-x, attempting to enable it for a different virtualization platform can lead to conflicts and result in an error.

5. Outdated Firmware or Virtualization Software: Using outdated BIOS/UEFI firmware or virtualization software may lead to compatibility issues with VT-x. It is important to keep both the system firmware and virtualization software up to date to avoid such problems.

Resolving the “VT-x is not available” error requires identifying the specific cause in your system and taking appropriate actions. It may involve checking CPU compatibility, adjusting BIOS/UEFI settings, disabling conflicting virtualization technologies, or updating firmware and software.

Fix “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)”

To fix the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Verify CPU Compatibility

The first on the “How to Fix VT-x is Not Available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error is to check if your CPU supports VT-x (Virtualization Technology for x86). VT-x is a hardware-assisted virtualization technology that enhances the performance and efficiency of virtualization environments.

To verify CPU compatibility, follow these steps:

1. Find out the model and brand of your CPU. You can usually find this information in your computer’s system specifications or by checking the CPU itself.

2. Visit the manufacturer’s website or search online for the specifications of your CPU model. Look for information related to virtualization or VT-x support. Some common CPU brands include Intel and AMD.

3. Look for specific mentions of VT-x or hardware virtualization in the CPU specifications. Ensure that your CPU is listed as supporting VT-x. If you find this information, it means your CPU is capable of enabling VT-x.

4. If you are using virtualization software, such as VirtualBox or VMware, check the system requirements specified by the software’s documentation or official website. Ensure that your CPU meets the minimum requirements for VT-x support.

NOTE: Some might have disabled Virtualization from BIOS which can cause the error. By enabling the virtualization feature, you can fix this issue.

If your CPU is not compatible with VT-x, it means that the necessary virtualization extensions are not present or supported by your processor. In such cases, you will not be able to enable VT-x, and the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error will persist. Unfortunately, there is no software-based workaround to enable VT-x on unsupported CPUs, as it is a hardware feature.

If your CPU is compatible with VT-x but you still encounter the error, you should proceed with the other troubleshooting steps mentioned as given like BIOS/UEFI settings, conflicting software, or outdated firmware issues.

Step 2: Update BIOS/UEFI Firmware

Restart your computer and access the BIOS/UEFI settings. The process may vary depending on the manufacturer, but it usually involves pressing a specific key during startup (e.g., F2, Del, Esc).

Look for the virtualization settings in the BIOS/UEFI menu. It might be labeled as Virtualization Technology, Intel Virtualization Technology, or a similar term.

Enable the virtualization option. Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. The system will restart.

Step 3: Disable Hyper-V (Windows Users Only)

There is a slight possibility of Hyper-V having compatibility issues with your VM on VirtualBox or VMware. By disabling Hyper-V, you can fix this issue.

• Press the Windows and search for “Turn Windows features on or off”. Open the corresponding option.
• Locate “Hyper-V” in the list and uncheck the box next to it.
• Click “OK” and restart your computer.

Step 4: Check for Other Virtualization Software

Check if there are any other virtualization programs or drivers installed on your system that might conflict with the VT-x (Virtualization Technology for x86) feature. These conflicts can prevent the proper functioning of VT-x and result in the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error.

Here’s how you can check for other virtualization software:

1. Windows, you can do this by pressing the Windows key and typing “Add or Remove Programs” or “Programs and Features” in the search bar. Open the corresponding option to view the list of installed programs.

2. Scan through the list of installed programs and look for any virtualization software, such as VirtualBox, VMware, or any other similar applications.

3. If you find any virtualization software that you are not currently using or that may conflict with the VT-x feature, consider uninstalling or disabling it temporarily.

Right-click on the program and select Uninstall to remove it.

4. After uninstalling or disabling conflicting virtualization software, it is important to restart your computer to ensure that the changes take effect.

By checking for and removing conflicting virtualization software, you eliminate the possibility of software conflicts that might be causing the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error.

This step aims to ensure that only one virtualization program or driver is using VT-x at a time, allowing your preferred virtualization software to utilize the feature without any conflicts.

Step 5: Update Virtualization Software

Ensure that your virtualization software (e.g., VirtualBox, VMware) is up to date. As there might be bugs or issues with your application that is causing the error and by updating, you can fix it.

• Open VirtualBox.
• Click on the Help menu.
• Choose Check for Updates.
• Click on Update or Download if an update is available.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to install the update.
• Restart VirtualBox for the changes to take effect.

Step 6: Disable Core Isolation

Disabling Core isolation has potentially helped resolve the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error in certain cases. Core isolation is a security feature in Windows that aims to protect your system from malicious attacks by isolating critical processes. However, this feature can interfere with virtualization technologies like VT-x, causing conflicts and preventing its proper functioning.

To disable Core isolation, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key and search for “Windows Security” or “Windows Defender Security Center”.

2. In the Windows Security window, click on Device Security or Security options, depending on your version of Windows.

3. Look for the Core isolation details or Core isolation section. Click on it to expand the options.

4. Depending on your system configuration and Windows version, you may have different Core isolation features such as Memory Integrity or Core Isolation Memory Integrity. Disable the relevant features by toggling the corresponding switch to the off position.

5. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

After disabling Core isolation, attempt to use VT-x and launch your virtualization software. This action may resolve the “VT-x is not available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error if it was caused by conflicts with Core isolation. If the error persists, it is recommended to re-enable Core isolation for security purposes.

By now, your system should be able to run VM and you have totally fixed the VT-x is Not Available error. However; if the error persists, consider reinstalling your virtualization software. Uninstall the virtualization software from your system and check for the error. This will fix your problem for sure. And this is all about the “How to Fix VT-x is Not Available (VERR_VMX_NO_VMX)” error.