How to Fix VirtualBox E_FAIL (0x80004005) Error on Windows

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Fix VirtualBox E_FAIL (0x80004005) Error: Easy Solutions for Windows Users

VirtualBox is a widely used open-source software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on their computers. However, while using VirtualBox, you may come across the error code E_FAIL (0x80004005), which prevents you from accessing the software. Firing up a virtual machine can lead to some particularly pesky problems that leave many users Feeling stuck. Here’s the silver lining – we can counter this problem with some well-tested answers.

Feeling lost due to this nuisance of an error? Take a deep breath - we’re about to shed some light on the root causes and walk you through a straightforward solution.

What Causes VirtualBox Error 0x80004005?

The VirtualBox E_FAIL (0x80004005) error can arise due to a variety of reasons, including:

Now that we’ve identified the problem, let’s move on to the good stuff – fixing it.

1. Disable Hyper-V on Windows

One of the most common causes of the E_FAIL (0x80004005) error in VirtualBox is a conflict with Hyper-V, Microsoft’s hardware virtualization technology. Disabling Hyper-V can resolve this issue. Follow these steps to disable it:

Steps to Disable Hyper-V:

  1. Open the Control Panel.

  2. Navigate to Programs and select Programs and Features.

  3. Click on Turn Windows features on or off.

  4. Uncheck the box next to Hyper-V and click OK.

  5. Open the Terminal (Admin) by pressing Win + X and selecting it.

  6. If a User Account Control (UAC) prompt appears, click Yes.

  7. In the command prompt, type the following command and press Enter:


bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
  1. Close the terminal and restart your computer.

After completing these steps, launch VirtualBox to see if the error has been resolved.

2. Install the Latest Version of VirtualBox

Outdated software can often lead to errors. Installing the latest version of VirtualBox ensures all features are up-to-date and compatible with your system, potentially fixing the E_FAIL (0x80004005) error.

Steps to Update VirtualBox:

  1. Open VirtualBox Manager.

  2. In the top menu, click on File and select Check for Updates.

  3. If an update is available, a pop-up will appear. Click on the link to download the latest version.

  4. Finish the installation by following the guided steps on your screen.

After updating, try launching your virtual machine again to see if the problem is resolved.

3. Rename the VM XML File

If the error persists, renaming the VM XML file might help. Your virtual machine’s foundation is built on the settings and configurations contained within this file. Renaming it can reset certain parameters that may be causing the issue.

Steps to Rename the VM XML File:

  1. Open File Explorer and go to the following path:

C:\Users\YourUsername\VirtualBox VMs\

  1. Find the folder associated with your virtual machine. The folder will have a file with a .xml-prev suffix.

  2. Right-click on this file and choose Rename.

  3. Remove the -prev suffix and press Enter.

  4. A confirmation message may appear—click Yes.

After renaming the file, relaunch VirtualBox and check if the error is resolved.

4. Uninstall Conflicting Third-Party Applications

Certain third-party applications, particularly antivirus programs, may interfere with VirtualBox and cause the E_FAIL (0x80004005) error. Temporarily uninstalling or disabling these applications can help resolve the issue.

Steps to Uninstall Conflicting Applications:

  1. Open the Control Panel.

  2. Go to Programs and select Programs & Features.

  3. Locate the application you want to remove, click on it, and select Uninstall.

  4. Restart your computer after uninstalling the program.

Once you’ve uninstalled the conflicting software, try running VirtualBox again.

5. Reinstall VirtualBox

If the above methods fail to fix the issue, you may need to reinstall VirtualBox. Reinstalling can replace faulty or missing files and potentially resolve the E_FAIL (0x80004005) error.

Steps to Reinstall VirtualBox:

  1. Open Control Panel and go to Programs & Features.

  2. Find VirtualBox in the list, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.

  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.

  4. Restart your computer.

  5. Download the latest version of VirtualBox from the official Oracle website.

  6. Install the new version and check if the error is resolved.

Conclusion

The VirtualBox E_FAIL (0x80004005) error can be a hurdle when trying to launch a virtual machine. Take these solutions to heart and you’ll find yourself triumphant over the issue, with a sense of accomplishment to boot. Whether it’s disabling Hyper-V, updating VirtualBox, renaming configuration files, or reinstalling the software, these methods should help you get VirtualBox running smoothly again.

FAQs

1. Why am I seeing the VirtualBox error 0x80004005?

The error usually appears due to conflicts with Hyper-V, incorrect configuration files, or outdated VirtualBox versions.

2. How do I disable Hyper-V on my Windows system?

You can disable Hyper-V through the Control Panel by turning off the feature in Windows Features and running the command bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off.

3. Can antivirus software cause VirtualBox errors?

Yes, some third-party applications, including antivirus programs, can interfere with VirtualBox, causing errors like E_FAIL (0x80004005).

4. Will reinstalling VirtualBox delete my virtual machines?

Reinstalling VirtualBox will not delete your virtual machines, but it’s always a good idea to back them up before performing a reinstall.

5. How often should I update VirtualBox?

You should regularly check for updates to keep VirtualBox running smoothly and to avoid potential errors.

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