How to Fix Hypervisor Error in Windows 11

The Hypervisor is a crucial component for running virtual machines on Windows, managing resource allocation. However, users may encounter Hypervisor errors that can render virtual machines unusable. These errors can stem from outdated drivers, storage drive issues, corrupted system files, interfering third-party applications, conflicting settings, or an outdated Windows version.

Fortunately, since the Hypervisor is software-based, you can resolve most issues using the methods outlined below. You may need to try multiple approaches to find the solution that works for your system.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

The Windows Memory Diagnostic tool can help identify issues with your computer's RAM, which may be causing Hypervisor errors.

Open the Start Menu and search for "Memory Diagnostic"
Click on "Windows Memory Diagnostic" in the search results

Windows Memory Diagnostic search

Choose to either restart immediately and check for problems or check the next time you start your computer

Windows Memory Diagnostic options

Update or install missing device drivers

Outdated, missing, or corrupt drivers can cause Hypervisor errors. Updating your drivers may resolve the issue.

Open the Start Menu and search for "Device Manager"
Click on "Device Manager" in the search results

Device Manager search

Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark
Right-click on the device and select "Update driver"

Update driver option

Choose to search automatically for drivers or browse your computer for driver software

Driver update options

If Windows can't find a driver, check for updates in Windows Update

Check for driver updates in Windows Update

Run CHKDSK

The CHKDSK utility can identify and fix issues with your storage drives that may be causing Hypervisor errors.

Open Command Prompt as administrator
Type the following command and press Enter:

chkdsk /f

Press Y to schedule the scan for the next restart

CHKDSK command

Run SFC and DISM scans

System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) can repair corrupted system files.

Open Command Prompt as administrator
Run the following command:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

After it completes, run:

SFC /scannow

SFC scan command

Disable and re-enable Hypervisor

Sometimes, simply turning Hypervisor off and on again can resolve issues.

Open Control Panel
Go to Programs > Turn Windows features on or off
Uncheck "Hyper-V" and "Virtual Machine Platform"
Click OK and restart your computer
Repeat the process to re-enable these features

Disable Hyper-V

Update BIOS and chipset drivers

Downloading and installing the latest BIOS and chipset drivers from your computer manufacturer's website can often resolve Hypervisor errors.

Disable overclocking

If you've overclocked your CPU, GPU, or system memory, try running everything at stock speeds. Disable XMP profiles or set them to Auto in your BIOS settings.

Run Driver Verifier

Driver Verifier can help identify driver-related issues causing Hypervisor errors.

Open Command Prompt as administrator
Type "verifier" and press Enter
Choose "Create standard settings" and click Next
Select "Automatically select all drivers installed on this computer"
Click Finish and restart your computer

Driver Verifier options

To stop Driver Verifier later, use the command:

verifier /reset

Perform a clean boot

A clean boot can help identify if third-party software is causing the Hypervisor error.

Press Windows+R, type "msconfig", and press Enter
In the General tab, select "Selective startup" and uncheck "Load startup items"
In the Services tab, check "Hide all Microsoft services" and click "Disable all"
Click Apply, then OK, and restart your computer

Clean boot options