Hardware virtualization is enabled in your PC’s UEFI or BIOS firmware, not by a single universal Windows switch. Many Windows 11 PCs already have it enabled. If yours does not, Microsoft recommends entering UEFI from Windows Recovery and then using the computer manufacturer’s instructions to enable the appropriate virtualization setting.
Check Whether Virtualization Is Already Enabled
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Select Performance.
- Select CPU.
- Look for the Virtualization status.
If it says Enabled, you normally do not need to change the firmware setting.
How to Enter UEFI or BIOS from Windows 11
- Open Settings.
- Select System > Recovery.
- Next to Advanced startup, select Restart now.
- In Windows Recovery, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings.
- Select Restart.
If UEFI Firmware Settings is not available, consult the PC or motherboard manufacturer’s documentation for the correct way to enter its firmware setup.
Enable Virtualization in the Firmware
- Find the virtualization setting in the UEFI or BIOS interface.
- Enable the appropriate setting, which may use a name such as Intel Virtualization Technology, Intel VT-x, AMD-V, or SVM Mode.
- Save the firmware changes and exit.
- Allow Windows 11 to restart.
- Check Task Manager again to confirm that virtualization is enabled.
The location and wording of this setting are manufacturer-specific. Change only the setting you understand. Microsoft warns that changing unrelated UEFI or BIOS options can prevent Windows from starting correctly.
Virtualization vs. Virtual Machine Platform
These are related but different settings. Firmware virtualization exposes the processor’s hardware virtualization capabilities. Virtual Machine Platform is an optional Windows feature used by certain virtualization-based software. Microsoft notes that some Windows 11 scenarios also require Virtual Machine Platform after firmware virtualization is enabled.
Do You Need to Enable Hyper-V?
Not necessarily. Hyper-V is a Windows virtualization platform with its own edition and feature requirements. An application that needs hardware virtualization does not automatically require the full Hyper-V feature. Follow the requirements for the specific virtual-machine, emulator, security, or development software you plan to use.
What If Virtualization Is Missing?
Confirm the exact PC or motherboard model and check the manufacturer’s support documentation. The processor, firmware, organization policy, or device configuration can affect what is available. On a work or school PC, contact the administrator before changing firmware security settings.
Summary
First check Task Manager because virtualization may already be enabled. If it is disabled, use Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup to enter UEFI, then follow your PC manufacturer’s instructions to enable the correct virtualization option.