WSL Error 0x80370102 — Virtual Machine Could Not Be Started

Fix WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) error 0x80370102 when the virtual machine platform cannot start due to disabled virtualization or Hyper-V conflicts. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: Error 0x80370102 occurs when WSL 2 cannot start its lightweight virtual machine. WSL 2 requires hardware virtualization (VT-x on Intel, AMD-V on AMD) enabled in BIOS. The Virtual Machine Platform Windows feature must be enabled. Third-party virtualization software (VMware, VirtualBox older versions) may conflict with WSL 2. Windows Home edition supports WSL 2 — Hyper-V feature is NOT required. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Hardware virtualization (VT-x/AMD-V) disabled in BIOS/UEFI. Virtual Machine Platform Windows feature not installed. Conflict with VMware Workstation or VirtualBox version that does not support Hyper-V coexistence. Windows version too old — WSL 2 requires Windows 10 version 1903+ (build 18362+). Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Enable virtualization in BIOS: restart > enter BIOS > Advanced > CPU Configuration > enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V. Enable Virtual Machine Platform: PowerShell (admin) > 'dism /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart'. Enable WSL feature: 'dism /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart'. Restart after enabling features, then run 'wsl --update' to get the latest WSL kernel. If using VMware/VirtualBox: update to versions that support Hyper-V coexistence (VMware 15.5.5+, VirtualBox 6.0+). If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

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