How to Fix VirtualBox Only Allowing 32-bit OS

VirtualBox is a powerful and flexible virtualization tool, but sometimes it may restrict you to only creating 32-bit virtual machines. This can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. Follow the guide below to troubleshoot and fix this problem.

Step 1: Check Your Host System's Architecture

The first step is to ensure your host operating system is 64-bit. VirtualBox can only run 64-bit guest operating systems if your host system is also 64-bit. You can check if your system is 64-bit by looking at the system's details or by using system information tools.

Step 2: Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

Virtual technology requires your CPU to support virtualization. Common virtualization technologies include Intel VT-x for Intel CPUs and AMD-V for AMD CPUs. To enable virtualization:

Restart your computer and access BIOS/UEFI settings typically by pressing F2, Delete, or F10 during startup. Look for settings related to virtualization such as Intel VT-x, AMD-V, or SVM Mode Make sure these options are enabled.

Step 3: Check Hyper-V Conflicts in Windows

Hyper-V, a virtualization platform also from Microsoft, may be enabled on your system, which can prevent VirtualBox from running 64-bit virtual machines. To disable Hyper-V:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Enter the following command: bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off Restart your computer.

Step 4: Update VirtualBox

Ensure that you are using the latest version of VirtualBox. Older versions may have limitations or bugs that cause issues with 64-bit OS support. You can find the latest version of VirtualBox on the official VirtualBox website.

Step 5: Check System Compatibility

Verify that your CPU supports virtualization features. You can use tools like CPU-Z to check your system's specifications and confirm the presence of virtualization capabilities.

Step 6: Reinstall VirtualBox

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, consider uninstalling VirtualBox and then reinstalling it. During installation, ensure that you install any necessary extensions.

Step 7: Check VirtualBox Settings

Open VirtualBox and check the settings for the virtual machine (VM) you are trying to create. Ensure you are selecting a 64-bit version in the OS Type dropdown menu.

Step 8: Look for Other Virtualization Software Conflicts

Other virtualization software like VMware might conflict with VirtualBox. Disabling or uninstalling them can help resolve the issue. If the problem persists, make sure no other virtualization tools are interfering.

Summary

After verifying your host system's architecture, enabling virtualization in BIOS, checking for Hyper-V conflicts, and ensuring you have the latest version of VirtualBox, you should be able to create 64-bit virtual machines. If you continue to encounter issues, reviewing system compatibility and reinstalling VirtualBox may help resolve the problem.