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In this article, we have explained what SVM is, how to enable/disable it, and we have also answered some frequently asked questions. You want to know something else about SVM? We have probably covered it here, but still, if you have more questions, please leave a comment at the end of this article.
SVM Meaning?
SVM stands for Secure Virtual Machine; it is a virtualization technology that allows you to run emulators like Bluestacks and softwares like Hyper-V and VMware, which divide computer resources like CPU, RAM, Storage drive, etc. and create a virtual environment called virtual machines (VMs).
In simple words, SVM lets the computer simultaneously run multiple programs and lets them share the hardware resources as if the programs are on separate machines.
For example, you can install Windows 7 on your computer that already has Windows 10 and use both of them. But don’t get confused between Virtual Machine and Dual Boot; both are different when it comes to uses. SVM is used for a lot of things like performance improvement during gaming on emulators and more.
What is SVM Mode in BIOS?
SVM mode is the option that lets you enable and disable SVM virtualization. It can only be found in BIOS if your hardware is virtualization compatible. You can use software like Speccy to check if your hardware is SVM compatible or not.
Later in this article, we have explained how you can enable/disable SVM mode.
What is AMD SVM?
AMD Secure Virtual Machine (SVM) was AMD’s first virtualization extension for the x86 processor architecture. After some time, AMD started trading them under a different name called AMD Virtualization (AMD-V).
How to Enable/Disable SVM Mode in BIOS?
During boot up, press the key that opens your BIOS settings; it could be ESC/F1/F2/F3/F4/F8 or Delete, depending upon your motherboard. Once it opens, press ‘F7’ to enter the Advanced Mode. (There is no need to press ‘F7’ if you have a ROG motherboard).
Now go to Advanced > CPU Configuration > SVM Mode
Click on the drop-down next to SVM mode and select enabled. Finally, click on ‘Save.’
If you want to disable the SVM mode, follow the same steps mentioned above and set SVM mode as disabled.
Note: The steps can be different depending upon your motherboard. On MSI motherboards, the BIOS menu has a search button on the top right; you can use it to search for SVM and then enable it.
If you are still not sure how to enable SVM mode, watch the video attached below, it explains how you can enable SVM on Intel-based systems and AMD-based systems.
Does SVM Mode Affect Performance?
SVM mode is a technology that allows your system to run virtual machines. It does not affect gaming or regular performance. However, if need to run virtual machines or gaming emulator like Bluestacks, it will definitely allow them to run more efficiently.
Should You Enable SVM?
As long as you are not using any virtual machine or gaming emulators, it’s better to keep the SVM mode disabled. Some people claim that SVM mode negatively impacts regular performance when it’s on, but in reality, you should not experience performance degradation when you are not using any virtual machine or other programs that use SVM technology.
SVM Mode Pros and Cons
Pros
SVM (Secure Virtual Machine) allows you to use programs like VMware and emulators at fast speed. As mentioned before, Android emulators like Bluestacks recommend users to enable SVM mode for better performance.
It creates a safe environment where you can simultaneously use multiple operating systems. Just enabling the SVM mode will not offer plenty of advantages, but the programs SVM lets you run can be used to do things that are impossible without this tech.
Cons
According to some people, SVM has disadvantages because it divides the hardware resources so multiple programs can utilize them and run simultaneously.
But it’s not a disadvantage; that’s the whole point. Even if you don’t use any virtualization software when your SVM mode is on, it does not cause any performance issues.
What to Do if There Is No SVM Mode in BIOS Settings
If you can find SVM mode in your BIOS settings, you are probably looking in the wrong menu. The User interface of BIOS can be different depending upon your motherboard manufacturer and series.
BIOS -> Advanced -> CPU Configuration -> SVM Mode -> enabled
If you still can’t find the SVM mode option, use Speccy to check if your hardware is virtualization compatible or not.
How to Fix SVM Mode Black Screen
Sometimes computers refuse to boot up after enabling SVM mode and only show a black screen. There can be multiple reasons that can cause this issue, including outdated BIOS and chipset drivers.
In some instances, the computer boots up normally after enabling SVM, but once you attempt to use programs like Windows Sandbox, it throws a dialog with “Virtualization is disabled in the firmware” message. Below we have mentioned two solutions to fix the black screen issue, hopefully, they will fix the issue.
Solution 1) Update BIOS and Chipset Drivers
If your PC is unable to boot up right after enabling the SVM mode in BIOS settings. Disable the SVM mode, and your PC should boot up normally. Then update your BIOS and chipset drivers. Also, upgrade to a newer version of Windows 10 and try enabling the SVM mode again.
Solution 2) Disable and Re-enable the Program You Are Using
If you are using a corrupted program, it may also cause black screen issues.
For example, if you are using Windows Sandbox, follow the steps mentioned below:
- Go to Control Panel.
- Click on Programs and features.
- On the left-hand side, click on Turn Windows features on or off.
- Now in the dialog box, scroll down and uncheck the option: Windows Sandbox.
- Finally, restart the computer.
Once your PC turns on, try to enable the Windows Sandbox again with SVM enabled.
If you are using a third-party program, uninstall and reinstall to fix the issue.
