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“Hypervisor error” can mean different things: a virtualization feature may not start, Memory Integrity may flag an incompatible driver, or Windows may crash with a hypervisor-related stop code. The right fix depends on which problem you have. Before changing settings, note the full error text, any stop code or “What failed” module, your Windows build (run winver), your PC’s make and model, and what you were doing when the error appeared.
1. Identify which hypervisor problem you have
Start with the symptom rather than applying every fix in order. A virtual machine or other virtualization-dependent feature that will not start points to a different troubleshooting path from a Memory Integrity warning or a repeated blue- or black-screen crash.
- A feature will not start: Record the feature or app and its complete error message. Check the firmware and Windows-feature steps below if the message concerns virtualization.
- Memory Integrity reports a driver: Write down the driver or device name and follow the driver-specific steps below.
- Windows crashes or restarts: Record the stop code and any module shown after “What failed.” Use the crash-specific steps below.
Keep these details together. The title “hypervisor error” alone does not identify a particular cause.
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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →2. Check hardware virtualization in UEFI or BIOS
Hardware virtualization can be disabled in firmware, but many Windows PCs already have it enabled. Check its status before changing anything. The option’s name and location vary by manufacturer.
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- In Windows, open Settings > System > Recovery, then select Restart now next to Advanced startup.
- After the restart, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Settings. The exact labels can vary.
- In the firmware interface, look for the manufacturer’s hardware-virtualization setting, enable it only if it is disabled, then save and restart.
Microsoft warns that changing unrelated firmware settings can prevent Windows from starting. Use the PC maker’s documentation for the correct setting and procedure, or its support instructions linked from Microsoft’s virtualization guide. If your firmware does not offer the expected option, consult the device maker rather than changing other settings at random.
3. Check Virtual Machine Platform when the feature requires it
Some virtualization setups may need the Windows feature Virtual Machine Platform. Microsoft specifically notes that it may be relevant after upgrading from Windows 10; that does not mean every hypervisor message requires it.
- Search Windows for Turn Windows features on or off and open the result.
- Find Virtual Machine Platform and select its checkbox if it is not already enabled.
- Select OK and restart if Windows prompts you to do so.
Use this step when it fits the feature or error you are troubleshooting, not as a universal repair. See Microsoft’s instructions for enabling virtualization for context.
4. Resolve a Memory Integrity driver warning
Memory Integrity, also called Hypervisor-protected Code Integrity (HVCI), relies on hardware virtualization. Microsoft states: “To use memory integrity, you must have hardware virtualization enabled in your system’s UEFI or BIOS.” If Windows identifies an incompatible driver, treat that named driver as evidence; do not start by switching off a security feature.
- Note the incompatible driver name shown in the Memory Integrity warning.
- Check the device or app maker’s support page for a compatible driver update. Use the driver intended for your exact device and Windows version.
- If no compatible driver is available, Microsoft says you may need to remove the device or the app that uses the driver. Consider the effect on any hardware or software that depends on it before uninstalling.
Microsoft’s Device Security guidance explains Memory Integrity and incompatible-driver handling. A driver warning is a distinct case from a feature-start failure without a named driver.
5. Troubleshoot a crash by its stop code
If the error appears during a blue- or black-screen crash, use the stop code and any “What failed” module name to guide the investigation. Microsoft’s general crash guidance includes checking drivers and recently added hardware, but those steps are diagnostic guidance—not a guaranteed cure for every hypervisor-related crash.
- If the crash began after adding hardware, disconnect or remove the new hardware when safe, then check whether the symptom changes.
- Check for driver updates relevant to the affected device, especially if the crash names a module or followed a driver change.
- Use the specific stop code and module name when consulting Microsoft’s unexpected restart and stop-code guidance and blue-screen troubleshooting steps.
Do not assume that a crash with a hypervisor-related label has the same cause as a Memory Integrity warning or a virtual machine that will not launch.
6. Check for the specific 2026 Secure Boot certificate issue
This step applies only if your symptoms match Microsoft’s documented Hyper-V Secure Boot certificate-update issue—not to hypervisor errors generally. In its issue notice published March 23, 2026, Microsoft describes a specific scenario involving Hyper-V and Secure Boot certificate updates. For the documented Event ID 1795 case, the update-based resolution must be installed on both the host and the guest.
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Confirm that your Secure Boot and update symptoms match the notice before acting, and follow its environment-specific instructions and timing: Microsoft’s Secure Boot certificate update issue page.
7. Use the PC maker’s guidance for firmware and drivers
Firmware menus and compatible drivers are device-specific. Use the manufacturer’s instructions for your PC model when enabling virtualization, and the relevant device or app maker’s support information when addressing a named incompatible driver. Microsoft’s virtualization and Memory Integrity pages link to manufacturer guidance; if your manufacturer is not listed, use the documentation provided for your device.
8. Escalate with the details that distinguish the cases
If the problem remains, give the device maker or support technician the information needed to identify the failure path:
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- The complete error wording, including any hexadecimal code
- The stop code and “What failed” module name, if Windows displayed them
- The Windows version and build from
winver - Your PC make and model
- The feature or app that triggered the error
- Recent hardware or driver changes, and any incompatible driver named by Memory Integrity
- Whether the failing system is the Hyper-V host or guest, if the Secure Boot certificate-update issue may apply
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