Windows 11 24H2 Hardware Virtualization being blocked by VBS

Understanding Hardware Virtualization Blockage in Windows 11 24H2 Due to Virtualization-Based Security (VBS)

Recent updates to Windows 11 have introduced significant changes to the way hardware virtualization features operate, especially in the context of security enhancements such as Virtualization-Based Security (VBS). Users who perform fresh installations of Windows 11 24H2 may encounter unexpected challenges with enabling hardware virtualization, a critical feature for virtualization enthusiasts, developers, and IT professionals.

The Issue: Hardware Virtualization Being Blocked

Following a clean installation of Windows 11 24H2, some users report that hardware virtualization is effectively blocked from functioning. Previously, resolving such issues involved straightforward steps:

• Navigating to Windows Security settings and disabling features under Core Isolation.
• Running the command: bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off in the Command Prompt.

However, these measures no longer appear effective in the latest version of Windows 11 24H2. Users are now finding that virtualization features remain inaccessible despite attempting to disable VBS and related security settings.

Impact on System Performance

Disabling hardware virtualization has been observed to cause a marginal reduction in CPU frequency—approximately 2 hertz—potentially affecting system performance and virtual machine stability. While this change may seem minor, it highlights the underlying conflicts introduced by VBS enforcement on certain hardware configurations.

Verifying Virtualization Status

Tools such as LeoMoon CPU-V offer an easy and reliable way to verify whether hardware virtualization extensions like VMX and VT-d are active. Despite enabling these features in the system BIOS, users have found that, post-update, virtualization remains disabled at the OS level.

Current Windows Version and Configuration

These issues have been identified in systems running Windows 11 24H2, specifically build 26100.4770. It is important to ensure your system is fully updated and to monitor official Microsoft communications regarding this problem.

Possible Causes and Recommendations

• VBS Enforcement: The recent updates appear to enforce VBS more aggressively, preventing users from enabling hardware virtualization easily.
• BIOS Settings: Double-check that hardware virtualization features like Intel VT-x/VT-d or AMD-V are enabled in your BIOS/UEFI firmware.
• Security Policies: Be aware that some security policies or group policies may override local settings and restrict virtualization features.
• Awaiting Fixes: Since this issue impacts system functionality and performance, it is advisable to keep your system updated