Will My Computer Run Hyper-V? Detecting Intel VT and AMD-V
“Will my <Random Computer Manufacture> <Random Computer Model> run Hyper-V?” Hyper-V requires processor virtualization extensions (Intel-VT and AMD-V) and requires those features to be enabled along with the No-Execute (NX) feature. For AMD we also require that the CPU be revision F3 or grater or F2 with additional BIOS support – most of the server OEM’s have the additional BIOS support but not all. Ok so the question still remains will my computer run Hyper-V? There are a few tools that will help you.
For AMD you can download there AMD Virtualization™ Technology and Microsoft® Hyper-V™ System Compatibility Check Utility when you run this it will tell you if your machine supports Hyper-V… If you are buying a new machine a good rule of thumb is that if it’s a Quad core the CPU supports AMD-V, you still need to verify the BIOS will allow you to enable it but a quick call to the vendor should tell you that.
For Intel you download there Intel® Processor Identification Utility There are two things that you should check on the CPU Technologies tab look for "Intel® Virtualization Technology” and on the CPUID tab look for “Execute Disable Bit”, however I am not aware of any Virtualization enabled chips that don’t have execute disable… If you are buying a new machine a good rule of thumb is that if it’s a Intel Core2 or better the CPU supports Intel VT, you still need to verify the BIOS will allow you to enable it but a quick call to the vendor should tell you that.

Leave a comment »