VirtualBox, a popular open-source virtualization software, has released its latest version, 7.1.12, a new maintenance update designed to enhance stability and address several issues affecting users across various platforms.
One notable fix is in the Virtual Machine Monitor, resolving a critical issue where running nested virtual machines previously resulted in a “Guru Meditation” error for the outer VM. Additionally, for users relying on NAT, the scenario where virtual machines with excessively long names refuse to start has also been effectively addressed.
Linux hosts received targeted attention, specifically addressing a severe issue causing potential kernel panics when bridged networking was used alongside network interfaces managed by the ixgbe driver on newer kernels.
On the Windows side, several critical improvements have been implemented. Users who previously experienced the dreaded Blue Screen of Death when closing the VirtualBox graphical interface after uninstalling the host package can now operate without worry.
Additionally, Oracle has made general improvements to driver installation on Windows hosts, enhancing the user experience with smoother and more predictable setups.
Furthermore, Windows host users who rely on Hyper-V can now expose AVX and AVX2 instructions to their guest systems. Additionally, the recording feature, which previously prevented some Windows guest machines from starting when recording was enabled in display settings, has also been fixed.
Regarding Linux compatibility, Oracle has added essential fixes that support the upcoming Linux kernel 6.16, alongside rectifying issues affecting older Linux kernel series.
Lastly, users of the Linux Guest Additions now have accurate reporting from the rcvboxadd status-kernel command on kernel versions 3.10 and older, as well as resolved initialization problems with VBoxClient on kernel 2.6 series and below.
Refer to the changelog for more information about all the changes in the new version. VirtualBox 7.1.10 is available from the project’s website’s download section. After updating, remember to install the latest Extension Pack version, which enhances VirtualBox’s functionality by adding features.
