Confirm that virtualization technology is enabled on your computer
Prior to running a virtual machine (VM) on your computer, the computer’s virtualization technology (vt-x / amd-v) must be enabled in the motherboard BIOS. Virtualization technology is by default enabled on Intel-based Macs. If you are using a Windows computer, free utilities are available to help you determine if your computer processor supports hardware virtualization, as well as to check the virtualization setting to ensure it is enabled. Below we have provided links to two such utilities for Windows OS machines.
- Windows OS computers with either Intel or AMD processor: http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=592
- Windows OS computer with an Intel processor: https://downloadcenter.intel.com/download/7838
If the virtualization technology is NOT enabled on your Windows machine, please refer to the manufacturer’s support site for instructions on how to enable the vt-x or amd-v setting in the BIOS. Below are general instructions on steps to follow to enter the BIOS:
- Boot the computer. As the manufacturer’s logo appears, press the designated setup button to enter the BIOS. The setup key varies by manufacturer and often by machine model within a manufacturer. Typical setup keys are F2, F5, F10, F12 and Del. The specific key for your computer will normally display on the screen with the manufacturer’s logo while the machine is booting up. The physical key on the key board will often have the manufacturer’s logo printed on it.
- Rapidly press the setup key as the computer boots up. If your computer boots very quickly, you may have to make a few attempts prior to getting the correct timing. After successfully hitting the setup key the BIOS will load.
- The layout of the BIOS settings menu varies by manufacturer, but most share common settings. Note that BIOS menus Do Not support mouse input. The arrow keys can be used to navigate the menu.