LKBEN10763: Error "Attempting to load a 64-bit application, however this CPU is not compatible with 64-bit mode" upon installation of Windows Server 2008 on Virtual Machine
Symptom
Although 64-bit CPU and functional 32-bit VMs, no Windows Server 2008 installation possible on VMWare
Cause
Intel BIOS - processor options are set to "Virtualization Technology" disabled
Solution
Scenario:
VMWare ESX Server, Dual Intel Xeon 2.5GHz, HP ML350 G5: Installation of Windows 200.
After files have been loaded, the Boot Manager stops with the following screen:
"Windows failed to start...
1. Insert your Windows installation disc and restart your computer.
2. Choose your language settings, and then click "Next".
3. Click "Repair your computer."
...
File: \windows\system32\boot\winload.exe
Status: 0xc000035a
Info: Attempting to load a 64-bit application, however this CPU is not compatible with 64-bit mode"
In this case, shut down your computer and enter your System BIOS. On above mentioned server it´s under "Advanced Options" - "Processor Options" - "Intel VT: Virtualization Technology" --> this setting has to be enabled (and is disabled by default).
On other computers the menus might differ, but with Intel CPUs/Chipsets this setting should be alike.
VMWare does not need to be reinstalled after changing this BIOS setting.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this document is intended for your information only. Lubby makes no claims to the validity of this information. Use of this information is at own risk!About the Author
Author: - Keskon GmbH & Co. KG
Wim Peeters is electronics engineer with an additional master in IT and over 30 years of experience, including time spent in support, development, consulting, training and database administration. Wim has worked with SQL Server since version 6.5. He has developed in C/C++, Java and C# on Windows and Linux. He writes knowledge base articles to solve IT problems and publishes them on the Lubby Knowledge Platform.