VirtualBox is a popular virtualization software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single machine. It provides a convenient way to test different software configurations, run legacy applications, and perform various development tasks. However, like any software, VirtualBox is not immune to issues, and one common problem that users encounter is being stuck on the boot logo when running or installing Windows 11 or Windows 10 in VirtualBox.
This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to help resolve the issue of VirtualBox Windows 11/10 getting stuck on the boot logo. Follow the steps outlined below to potentially fix the problem and get your virtual machine up and running.
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Why does VirtualBox get stuck on the Windows boot logo?
The issue of Windows getting stuck on the boot logo in VirtualBox can occur due to several reasons, many of which boil down to hardware and software compatibility or configuration issues. Here are the main culprits:
- Incorrect settings: Misconfiguration of VM settings can lead to improper booting. For example, not allocating enough resources to the VM, or selecting the wrong options in system settings, can interfere with the system’s ability to load the OS correctly.
- Hardware acceleration issues: Hardware acceleration plays a crucial role in the performance of your VM. If technologies like Intel VT-x and AMD-V are disabled or not supported by your host machine, it can lead to boot problems.
- Outdated software: Keeping your VirtualBox up to date is key. Older versions may lack the necessary features or patches to support Windows 11/10, leading to compatibility issues and, consequently, boot problems.
- Corrupted virtual disk file: VirtualBox utilizes virtual disk files (like VDI, VMDK, etc.) to store the VM’s OS and data. If these files become corrupted, it can result in a variety of issues, including the inability to pass the boot logo.
Linked issue: VirtualBox Windows 11: This PC doesn’t meet the requirements
How to fix the Windows 11/10 stuck on logo issue in VirtualBox
Solving the “stuck on Windows boot logo” issue requires a systematic approach to rule out potential causes. Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate your way out of this problem:
Step 1: Try different Paravirtualization Interface
Paravirtualization interfaces can significantly impact the performance and boot process of your VM. VirtualBox offers several options, and experimenting with these might help resolve the issue:
- Open VirtualBox and select the problematic VM.
- Click on “Settings“.
- Navigate to the “System” tab and then to the “Acceleration” tab.
- In the “Paravirtualization Interface” dropdown menu, try different settings. Start with the “Hyper-V” setting, which is most commonly used and suitable for most systems, and if the issue persists, try “KVM” or “None“.
Note: Changing these settings may affect the overall performance of your VM, so it’s recommended to switch back to “Default” after troubleshooting the issue if the issue is not related to this setting.
Related problem: This host supports Intel VT-x, but Intel VT-x is disabled
Step 2: Check your virtual machine settings
VirtualBox VM settings play a crucial role in ensuring smooth boot and operation. An incorrect configuration can lead to issues including getting stuck on Windows boot logo. To check your VM settings:
- In your VM “Settings“, go to the “System” section.
- Here, you’ll find settings related to the VM’s core hardware, including Base Memory (RAM) and Processor(s). Windows 10/11 generally requires a minimum of 2GB of RAM, but allocating 4GB or more can ensure smoother operation.
- Similarly, allocating two or more CPUs (if your host machine supports it) can enhance performance.
- In the “Motherboard” tab, ensure that the boot order starts with the Hard Disk where the OS is installed.
Relevant resource: Sorry, this application cannot run under a Virtual Machine
Step 3: Disable USB Controller
USB support in VMs can sometimes cause boot issues. If enabled, it allows the VM to access USB devices connected to the host machine. However, disabling it could potentially solve the boot problem:
- In your VM “Settings“, go to the “USB” section.
- Uncheck the “Enable USB Controller” option. This will prevent the VM from attempting to access USB devices during boot, which might solve the issue if USB support was the cause.
Step 4: Update your VirtualBox software
Keeping VirtualBox updated is crucial for maintaining compatibility with newer OS versions like Windows 10/11. Here’s how to check for updates:
- Open VirtualBox and click on the “File” option in the menu bar.
- Select “Check for Updates” from the dropdown menu.
- If there’s an update available, follow the prompts to install it. This update might contain important patches or features that solve compatibility issues with Windows 11/10.
Also see: How to Open VMDK File in Windows 11
Step 5: Uninstall and reinstall VirtualBox
If all else fails, it might be time for a clean uninstall and reinstall of VirtualBox. This ensures any corrupted files or configurations within VirtualBox itself are removed:
- Uninstall VirtualBox following your system’s standard procedure (usually through the Control Panel or Settings on Windows).
- Restart your computer to ensure all components of VirtualBox are fully removed.
- Download the latest version of VirtualBox from the official website.
- Install VirtualBox following the provided instructions, then try starting your VM again.
Final thoughts
Getting stuck on the Windows boot logo in VirtualBox can be a challenging issue to tackle, especially when you are not certain about what’s causing the issue and how to resolve it. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you have a good chance of resolving the problem. However, if the issue persists even after attempting the suggested solutions, it may be helpful to seek further assistance from the VirtualBox or Reddit community forums or consult the official VirtualBox documentation for more advanced troubleshooting techniques.
In addition to troubleshooting, it is important to ensure that you have a well-configured virtual machine environment. Pay attention to the settings within VirtualBox, including the boot order and display configuration, as these can impact the booting process. Keeping your VirtualBox software and Guest Additions up to date is also crucial for compatibility and stability. Regularly checking for updates and applying them can prevent potential issues down the line.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that VirtualBox is not the only virtualization software available. If you continue to experience persistent problems, exploring other virtualization platforms, such as VMware or Parallels, might be worthwhile. Different virtualization software may offer unique features and compatibility advantages, and switching to a different platform could potentially resolve the boot logo issue.
