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How to Fix VirtualBox Not Showing 64-Bit Options on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

VirtualBox is a popular tool for running multiple operating systems on a single computer. Sometimes, users on Windows 11 notice that the option to create 64-bit virtual machines is missing. This can be frustrating, especially if you need a 64-bit environment for your projects or testing.

Fortunately, this issue usually has straightforward solutions. By following some simple steps, you can restore 64-bit options in VirtualBox and get your virtual machines up and running.

This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step fixes, starting with basic checks and moving towards more advanced troubleshooting. Let’s get started.

No technical expertise is required—just follow along carefully.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check your CPU: Ensure your processor supports 64-bit virtualization. Most modern CPUs do, but it’s good to confirm.
  • Enable virtualization in BIOS/UEFI: VirtualBox requires hardware virtualization to show 64-bit options. This feature is often disabled by default.
  • Use the latest VirtualBox version: Older versions may have bugs or compatibility issues with Windows 11.
  • Close conflicting software: Programs like Hyper-V or other hypervisors can block VirtualBox’s access to virtualization features.

Step 1: Verify CPU Virtualization Support

Before diving into settings, confirm that your CPU supports virtualization technology such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V.

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • Click on the Performance tab.
  • Select CPU from the left menu.
  • Look for Virtualization on the right side. It should say Enabled or Supported.

If it says Disabled or Not Supported, you need to enable virtualization in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings (covered in the next step).

Step 2: Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

Virtualization must be turned on in your system firmware before VirtualBox can detect 64-bit options.

  1. Restart your computer.
  2. As the computer boots, press the key to enter BIOS/UEFI setup. This key varies by manufacturer and is often Delete, F2, F10, or Esc. Check your PC manual or look for on-screen hints.
  3. Once inside BIOS/UEFI, find the Virtualization Technology or Intel VT-x / AMD-V option. It’s usually under Advanced, CPU Configuration, or Security menus.
  4. Enable this setting.
  5. Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F10).

After rebooting, check Task Manager again to confirm virtualization is enabled.

Step 3: Disable Hyper-V and Other Conflicting Features

Windows 11 includes Hyper-V, a built-in virtualization platform that can block VirtualBox from using hardware virtualization.

To disable Hyper-V:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type optionalfeatures.exe and press Enter. This opens the Windows Features window.
  3. Scroll down and uncheck Hyper-V.
  4. Also uncheck Windows Hypervisor Platform and Virtual Machine Platform if they are enabled.
  5. Click OK and restart your computer.

Alternatively, you can disable Hyper-V via Command Prompt:

bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off

Run this command as Administrator, then reboot your PC.

Step 4: Check VirtualBox Version and Update

Using an outdated version of VirtualBox may cause compatibility issues with Windows 11.

  • Visit the official VirtualBox website.
  • Download and install the latest version compatible with Windows 11.
  • During installation, ensure all drivers and network features are installed correctly.

After updating, restart VirtualBox and check if 64-bit options are now visible.

Step 5: Configure Windows Defender Credential Guard and Core Isolation

Some Windows security features can interfere with virtualization.

Disable Credential Guard:

  1. Open gpedit.msc by typing it into the Start menu and pressing Enter.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Device Guard.
  3. Double-click Turn On Virtualization Based Security.
  4. Select Disabled and click OK.
  5. Restart your PC.

Disable Core Isolation Memory Integrity:

  1. Search for Windows Security in the Start menu and open it.
  2. Go to Device Security > Core isolation details.
  3. Turn off Memory Integrity if it’s enabled.
  4. Restart your computer.

Alternative Method: Use Command Prompt to List VirtualBox Capabilities

If you want to confirm VirtualBox recognizes your CPU’s 64-bit capabilities, run this command:

VBoxManage list hostinfo

This will display detailed information about your host system, including virtualization support. If 64-bit is missing here, it means VirtualBox cannot access hardware virtualization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does VirtualBox not show 64-bit options?

This usually happens because hardware virtualization is disabled, Hyper-V or other Windows features are blocking access, or your CPU doesn’t support 64-bit virtualization.

How do I know if my CPU supports virtualization?

Use the Task Manager Performance tab or third-party tools like CPU-Z. Most Intel and AMD CPUs from recent years support it.

Can I run 64-bit VMs without enabling virtualization in BIOS?

No. Hardware virtualization must be enabled in BIOS/UEFI to run 64-bit virtual machines in VirtualBox.

What if I need Hyper-V for other tasks but want to use VirtualBox?

Currently, Hyper-V and VirtualBox hardware virtualization support can conflict. You may consider using Windows Sandbox or setting up dual boot environments instead.

After all steps, 64-bit still doesn’t appear. What now?

Try reinstalling VirtualBox as Administrator and double-check BIOS settings. Also, ensure no other virtualization software is running.

When Nothing Works: Final Resort Options

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still don’t see 64-bit options, consider the following:

  • Check for BIOS updates: Sometimes motherboard firmware updates improve virtualization compatibility.
  • Contact your PC manufacturer: They can provide guidance on enabling virtualization for your specific model.
  • Visit the official VirtualBox forums: The community and developers can assist with niche issues here.
  • Try alternative virtualization software: Tools like VMware Workstation Player may offer better compatibility with your system.

Conclusion

Missing 64-bit options in VirtualBox on Windows 11 is a common but fixable issue. The key is enabling hardware virtualization in BIOS, disabling conflicting Windows features like Hyper-V, and keeping VirtualBox updated.

By carefully following each step in this guide, you should be able to access the 64-bit guest options and run your desired virtual machines smoothly.

Remember to reboot your system after making changes to ensure settings take effect. If problems persist, exploring official support channels or alternative software can help.

With these solutions, you’ll unlock the full potential of VirtualBox on your Windows 11 PC.

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