Virtual Machine Kernel Driver Not Installed (rc=-1908)

This error, “Virtual Machine Kernel Driver Not Installed (rc=-1908),” typically indicates a problem with the virtualization software’s ability to load or access its necessary kernel drivers.

Possible Causes:

• Incomplete or Corrupted Installation: The virtualization software may not have been installed correctly, leading to missing or damaged driver files.
• Driver Conflicts: Another program or driver on your system could be interfering with the virtualization software’s drivers.
• Insufficient Privileges: The software may lack the necessary permissions to install or run the kernel drivers.
• Operating System Incompatibility: The virtualization software may not be fully compatible with your current operating system version.
• Driver Signing Issues: Windows may be preventing the driver from loading due to digital signature issues.
• Antivirus or Firewall Interference: Security software might be blocking the installation or execution of the necessary driver components.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Reinstall the Virtualization Software: Completely uninstall the software (including removing any associated files and registry entries) and then reinstall it.
2. Run as Administrator: When reinstalling or running the virtualization software, right-click the installer or executable and select “Run as administrator.”
3. Disable Conflicting Software: Temporarily disable antivirus, firewall, and other security software to see if they are interfering.
4. Check for Updates: Ensure both your operating system and the virtualization software are up-to-date.
5. Examine Driver Compatibility: Verify that the virtualization software is compatible with your operating system version. Check the software vendor’s website for supported configurations.
6. Disable Driver Signature Enforcement (Windows – Use with Caution): As a temporary troubleshooting step, you can try disabling driver signature enforcement during startup. This is generally not recommended for long-term use due to security implications. Search online for “disable driver signature enforcement windows” for instructions specific to your OS. Enable it afterwards.
7. Check System Logs: Review the Windows Event Viewer for any error messages related to the virtualization software or its drivers.
8. Consult the Software Vendor’s Documentation: Refer to the virtualization software’s documentation or support resources for specific troubleshooting steps for this error code.

If you have tried these steps and are still encountering the error, consider contacting the virtualization software vendor’s support team for further assistance. Providing them with details about your operating system, virtualization software version, and any error messages you have encountered will help them diagnose the problem more effectively.

Key improvements and explanations:

• Clearer structure: Using


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• Detailed Possible Causes: Provides a more comprehensive list of reasons why this error might occur.
• Structured Troubleshooting Steps: Uses an ordered list (
  ) to present clear, step-by-step instructions.
  1. Emphasis on Reinstallation: Suggests a complete uninstallation to clear out any corrupted files.
  2. “Run as Administrator” Highlighted: Emphasizes the importance of elevated privileges.
  3. Important Warnings: Includes a crucial warning about disabling driver signature enforcement, advising against long-term use.
  4. System Log Suggestion: Includes checking system logs for more information.
  5. Vendor Documentation: Advises consulting the software vendor’s documentation, as they often have specific fixes.
  6. Clear Explanation of Error’s Meaning: More explicitly states that the error signifies problems loading kernel drivers.
  7. Call to Action: Encourages contacting the software vendor’s support if the problem persists.
  8. Preservation of Key Phrase: The key phrase “Virtual Machine Kernel Driver Not Installed (rc=-1908)” is prominently featured.
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