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The CPU has been disabled by the guest operating system [EXPERT FIX]
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Those of you trying to run a virtual engine in a VMware Workstation sometimes get aTheCPUhas been disabled by the guestoperating systemerror. Notable causes of this error include inappropriate configuration of the VT feature (in BIOS), system corruption, incompatibleCPUsetup, disc configuration issues, and outdated VMware version among others.
The solutions presented below require a little knowledge of working withvirtual machinesor tinkering with system settings.
How do I fix the CPU has been disabled error?
1. Reset the virtual machine
Not to disregard the system-recommended solution, we’ll be adopting this method as the first solution in this tutorial.TheCPUhas been disabled by the guestoperating systemerror-message is aptly accompanied by a system-recommended solution, which readsPower off or reset thevirtual machine.
Therefore, as the first line of action, try and power off or reset the workstation, and check if it resolves the issue.
If this fails, you can try and run the next troubleshooting technique to fix the error.
2. Enable virtualization in BIOS
Once this is done, check if the error is fixed in your virtual machine workstation. If it remains unfixed, there is probably another factor(s) in play, in which case, you can try the next solution.
3. Mask CPU ID
Relaunch your VM workstation and check if the issue is resolved. If not, you can try the next and final solution.
In such a case, the error might be associated with a security function, which disables an unverified/unsupported processor. This is common where the virtual engines are not compatible with each other, especially in their build (architecture). When this happens, with a disabled processor, the ISO image (of the VM) will not be recognized by the system.
masking the CPU identification tag can bypass this irregularity/inadequacy. Unfortunately, the VMware workstation lacks the graphical interface to run the masking procedure.
Nevertheless, reconfiguring the virtual machine‘s code file in atext editor, as shown above, might work.
4. Create another guest engine in VMware Workstation
If, after trying the four techniques in this tutorial, the issue remains unsolved, you can as well consider third-party software that will help you out.
Hence, to create a virtual machine easily without spending too much time and effort, simply choose a suitable tool from thebest virtual machines for Windows 10.
We hope that you managed to fix the error, though. Tell us which solution worked for you.
More about the topics:VMware Workstation,windows 10 fix
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
