Blog

How to Fix Raw-Mode Unavailable Error in Hyper-V and VirtualBox on Windows 11

Running virtual machines on Windows 11 using Hyper-V or VirtualBox can sometimes lead to the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error. This error usually prevents your virtual machine from starting properly. It can be frustrating, especially if you rely on virtualization for work or testing.

Fortunately, fixing this issue often involves a few straightforward steps. By understanding what causes the problem, you can resolve it quickly and get back to using your virtual machines without hassle.

This guide will walk you through simple and more advanced methods to fix the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error. Each step is explained in detail, so even beginners can follow along with ease.

Let’s get started and restore your virtual machine’s functionality on Windows 11.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Check if virtualization is enabled: Your CPU must support virtualization, and it should be enabled in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
  • Windows 11 updates: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
  • Hyper-V and VirtualBox conflict: Both use hardware virtualization, so running them simultaneously might cause problems.
  • Run as administrator: VirtualBox and Hyper-V often require admin rights to access virtualization features properly.

Step 1: Verify Virtualization Support and Enable It in BIOS/UEFI

The “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error often occurs because virtualization technology is either disabled or not supported by your CPU. To check and enable it:

  1. Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings. This is usually done by pressing a key such as Delete, F2, or Esc during startup. Look for a message on the screen that tells you which key to press.
  2. Locate the virtualization setting. It might be called “Intel VT-x,” “AMD-V,” “Virtualization Technology,” or something similar, depending on your hardware manufacturer.
  3. Enable virtualization. If it is disabled, switch it on.
  4. Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will reboot.

Enabling virtualization is crucial because both Hyper-V and VirtualBox rely on this feature to run virtual machines efficiently.

Step 2: Disable Hyper-V If Using VirtualBox

Hyper-V and VirtualBox can conflict because they both use the virtualization extensions in your CPU. If you are trying to run a VirtualBox VM and get the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error, disabling Hyper-V might help.

  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator. Right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Run this command to disable Hyper-V:
Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Hyper-V-All
  1. Restart your computer. This ensures the changes take effect.

Disabling Hyper-V frees up the virtualization resources that VirtualBox needs to access raw-mode virtualization features.

Step 3: Enable Hyper-V If You Are Using It

If you want to use Hyper-V but receive this error, make sure Hyper-V is fully enabled and configured correctly.

  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
  2. Run this command to enable Hyper-V:
Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Hyper-V-All
  1. Restart your PC.

Also, check that your user account is part of the Hyper-V Administrators group. This gives you permission to manage Hyper-V virtual machines.

Step 4: Turn Off Windows Features That Conflict with Virtualization

Windows 11 includes features like Windows Sandbox, Device Guard, or Credential Guard that can interfere with virtualization.

  1. Go to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off.
  2. Look for features like Windows Hypervisor Platform, Windows Sandbox, Virtual Machine Platform, and Windows Defender Application Guard.
  3. Uncheck features that you don’t need or suspect may cause conflicts.
  4. Click OK and restart your computer.

Disabling these features can free up virtualization resources and reduce conflicts.

Step 5: Update VirtualBox to the Latest Version

Older versions of VirtualBox may not be fully compatible with Windows 11 or the latest hardware virtualization improvements.

Updating ensures that you have the latest fixes and compatibility improvements, which can resolve the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error.

Step 6: Use Alternative Virtualization Settings in VirtualBox

If the problem persists, try changing the virtualization engine in VirtualBox settings:

  1. Open VirtualBox and select the virtual machine that has the error.
  2. Click on Settings > System > Acceleration.
  3. Try toggling between Hardware Virtualization options like Enable VT-x/AMD-V and Enable Nested Paging.
  4. Save changes and start the VM again.

Sometimes disabling or enabling these options can bypass certain hardware or software conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error?

This error typically happens when virtualization support is disabled, another program like Hyper-V is blocking virtualization, or there is a conflict between virtualization technologies.

Can I run Hyper-V and VirtualBox simultaneously?

Generally, no. They both use hardware virtualization and can conflict. If you want to use VirtualBox, it’s best to disable Hyper-V temporarily.

How do I check if virtualization is enabled on my Windows 11 PC?

You can open Task Manager > Performance tab > CPU section. Look for “Virtualization: Enabled.” If it says “Disabled,” you need to enable it in BIOS/UEFI.

Will disabling Hyper-V affect other Windows features?

Yes, some Windows features rely on Hyper-V, such as Windows Sandbox and Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL2). Consider this before disabling Hyper-V.

My BIOS/UEFI does not show virtualization options. What should I do?

Check your motherboard or system manufacturer’s website for instructions. Some systems may have virtualization enabled by default or hidden under advanced settings.

When Nothing Works

If you have followed all the above steps and the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error persists, consider these final options:

  • Check for Windows updates: Sometimes Microsoft releases patches that fix virtualization bugs.
  • Reinstall VirtualBox or Hyper-V: A clean installation can fix corrupted files or misconfigurations.
  • Consult official documentation and forums: Visit the Microsoft Hyper-V documentation or VirtualBox forums for specific help.
  • Contact support: If you use a commercial virtualization solution, reaching out to their support team may provide tailored solutions.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Raw-Mode Unavailable” error on Windows 11 is usually a matter of enabling virtualization, managing conflicts between Hyper-V and VirtualBox, and ensuring your system is properly updated. Starting with BIOS settings and moving through software configurations helps isolate and resolve the problem step-by-step.

Remember to always verify virtualization support first, as it’s the foundation for running any virtual machine. Disabling conflicting features and keeping your virtualization software updated will minimize errors and improve performance.

By carefully following these instructions, you can get your virtual machines up and running smoothly again on Windows 11.

Leave a Reply