Installing Windows 11 in UTM can sometimes present challenges, one of the most common being the “Display Output is Not Active” error. This issue typically arises during the installation of UTM Guest Tools and can leave users frustrated and unsure of how to proceed. This detailed guide explains why the issue occurs, provides step-by-step instructions to resolve it, and includes additional tips to ensure a smooth installation process.
What Causes the “Display Output is Not Active” Error?
The “Display Output is Not Active” error occurs because UTM Guest Tools installs display resolution drivers as part of the process. When these drivers are being installed, the display output may temporarily stop functioning. This is not an actual error but rather a side effect of the driver installation process. The system updates the display settings in the background, causing the screen to go inactive for a short time.
This can be confusing because you cannot see what is happening on the screen, leaving you to wonder if the installation is stuck or something went wrong. Fortunately, this is a normal part of the setup process and is easily resolved.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the “Display Output is Not Active” Error
If you encounter this issue while installing Windows 11 in UTM, follow these steps to fix it:
1. Wait for the Installation to Finish
The first thing to remember is that the installation is still running, even though the display output is inactive. The UTM Guest Tools are installing essential drivers in the background. All you need to do is wait for about 1-2 minutes. This time frame is usually sufficient for the installation to complete.
2. Restart the Virtual Machine
Once you’ve waited for the installation to finish, the next step is to restart your virtual machine. Since you cannot see the display, you won’t have any visual indication that the process is complete. Restarting ensures that the updated drivers and settings take effect. To restart the virtual machine:
- If you are using UTM on a Mac, click on the “Power Off” button in the UTM interface and then start the virtual machine again.
- If you can access keyboard shortcuts, try using
Ctrl + Alt + Delto initiate a restart (if the virtual machine is responsive).
3. Verify Display and Resolution Settings
After restarting, your Windows 11 virtual machine should boot up with the updated display drivers. You’ll notice that the screen resolution is now smooth and optimized for your system. If the display output is still not active, repeat the process or check for any issues with the UTM Guest Tools installation.
Why This Solution Works
The display issue occurs because of a temporary disruption caused by the installation of new display resolution drivers. When the UTM Guest Tools installation process is finished and the virtual machine is restarted, the new drivers become fully operational, restoring the display output and optimizing the resolution. This is why waiting and restarting are the key steps to resolving the problem.
Tips for Avoiding Installation Issues
Here are a few additional tips to ensure a smooth installation process:
- Be patient: It’s important to give the installation process enough time to finish. Interrupting it too early could cause incomplete installations or errors.
- Ensure you have the latest UTM version: Always use the latest version of UTM and UTM Guest Tools to minimize compatibility issues.
- Allocate sufficient resources: Make sure your virtual machine has enough CPU, RAM, and storage allocated for Windows 11 to run efficiently.
- Backup your VM: Before making major changes, create a snapshot of your virtual machine. This allows you to revert to a previous state if something goes wrong.
Conclusion
Encountering the “Display Output is Not Active” error while installing Windows 11 in UTM might be unsettling, but it is a temporary and fixable issue. The key is to understand that the display goes inactive because of driver installation and that the solution is simply to wait for the process to complete and then restart the virtual machine. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can overcome this issue and enjoy a smooth Windows 11 experience on your UTM virtual machine.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out our other resources for troubleshooting and optimizing virtual machine setups. Happy computing!
FAQ
Why does the ‘Display Output is Not Active’ error occur while installing UTM Guest Tools?
The error occurs because UTM Guest Tools installs display resolution drivers during the process, which temporarily disrupts the display output. This is normal and resolves once the installation is completed and the virtual machine is restarted.
How long should I wait when the display output becomes inactive?
You should wait approximately 1-2 minutes. The installation continues in the background even though the display is inactive. Once the installation is complete, restart the virtual machine to resolve the issue.
What should I do if the display remains inactive after restarting?
If the display remains inactive after restarting, try reinstalling the UTM Guest Tools. Make sure you are using the latest version of the tools to avoid compatibility issues.
Can I interrupt the installation process when the display is inactive?
No, interrupting the installation could lead to incomplete driver installation or errors. It is best to wait for the installation to finish, even if the display is inactive.
Is there a way to monitor the installation progress when the display is inactive?
Unfortunately, there is no way to monitor the progress directly since the display output is inactive. However, the installation typically completes within 1-2 minutes, so waiting for this duration is a reliable approach.
How does restarting the virtual machine resolve the issue?
Restarting the virtual machine activates the new display resolution drivers installed by UTM Guest Tools. This restores the display output and optimizes the resolution.
How can I prevent this issue in future installations?
The issue is a natural part of the driver installation process and cannot be entirely avoided. However, understanding the steps to resolve it—waiting and restarting—ensures you can quickly address it in the future.