Hardware⏱️ 2 min read📅 2026-05-31

How to Fix: Docker for Windows error: "Hardware assisted virtualization and data execution protection must be enabled in the BIOS"

Ensure your BIOS settings are correct for Docker on Windows.

Quick Answer: Check that virtualization is enabled in the BIOS and that data execution protection is also turned on.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 🔍 Why This Happens
  2. 🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps
  3. 🎯 Final Words

The error message you're encountering is due to a compatibility issue between Docker and your system's BIOS settings. When running the GUI, Docker requires hardware-assisted virtualization and data execution protection to be enabled in the BIOS.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • [Cause]

🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps

Method 1: Update BIOS and Enable Virtualization

  1. Step 1: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings by pressing F2, F12 or Del.

Method 2: Use a Different Virtualization Method

  1. Step 1: Install VirtualBox and use it to run Docker from the GUI.

🎯 Final Words

[Wrap-up]

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