Fixing VirtualBox Error E_FAIL 0x80004005

If you're encountering the E_FAIL 0x80004005 error while trying to start a virtual machine in VirtualBox, don't worry; this is a common issue that can usually be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps. Here, we’ll explore possible causes of the error and guide you through effective solutions to get your virtual machine up and running again.

Possible Causes of E_FAIL 0x80004005 in VirtualBox

The E_FAIL 0x80004005 error can result from several factors, including:

  • Conflicts between VirtualBox settings and recent OS or driver updates.
  • Incorrect configuration of the virtual machine.
  • Corrupted virtual machine configuration file.
  • Hardware access issues, such as when Hyper-V is enabled on Windows.

Steps to Resolve E_FAIL 0x80004005

1. Check if Hyper-V is Enabled on Windows

Windows’ built-in Hyper-V virtualization can conflict with VirtualBox. To disable Hyper-V:

  1. Open the Control Panel or Windows Settings.
  2. Go to Programs and Features and select Turn Windows features on or off.
  3. Uncheck Hyper-V, restart your computer, and try launching the virtual machine again.

2. Update VirtualBox for Compatibility with Your System

Updating VirtualBox to the latest version often includes fixes for known issues. Download the most recent version from the official VirtualBox website, install it, and try running your virtual machine again.

3. Restore the Virtual Machine Configuration File

The virtual machine’s configuration file (with the .vbox extension) might be corrupted, causing the E_FAIL 0x80004005 error. To restore the configuration:

  1. Navigate to the folder where the virtual machine files are stored and locate a file with the .vbox-prev extension (a backup of the configuration).
  2. Rename the .vbox file (the main configuration file) to .vbox.old to keep a backup.
  3. Rename the .vbox-prev file to .vbox and attempt to start the virtual machine again.

4. Ensure There Are No Conflicting Processes

Other processes might interfere with VirtualBox. Restart your system, close any unnecessary applications, and ensure no other virtualization software is running that could conflict with VirtualBox.

Additional Tips

If the E_FAIL 0x80004005 error persists, consider these additional steps:

  • Run VirtualBox as an administrator.
  • Temporarily disable any antivirus software, as it may block access to the virtual machine files.
  • If the error occurred after a recent system update, try rolling back the update.