Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Unable to start a Linux VM in VirtualBox with a "Kernel driver not installed (rc=-1908)" error on macOS even if VirtualBox is reinstalled

VirtualBox kernel driver not installed error on macOS High Sierra with Ubuntu Linux VM.

Quick Answer: Try reinstalling VirtualBox and ensuring the kernel module is loaded successfully.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 🛑 Root Causes of the Error
  2. 🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes
  3. ✨ Wrapping Up

The 'Kernel driver not installed (rc=-1908)' error is frustrating and affects users who are trying to start a Linux VM in VirtualBox on macOS. This issue can occur even if VirtualBox is reinstalled, making it challenging for users to resolve.

This problem typically arises when the kernel module required by VirtualBox's support driver is not loaded successfully. In this case, the user has recently restored their MacBook Pro using Time Machine Backup and enabled FileVault on the original machine.

🛑 Root Causes of the Error

  • The primary reason for this error is that VirtualBox's support driver is not installed or not loaded correctly due to kernel module issues.
  • Another possible cause could be disk level encryption enabled during Linux VM setup, which might interfere with VirtualBox's functionality.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Reinstalling and updating the VirtualBox support driver

  1. Step 1: Stop any running VMs in VirtualBox.
  2. Step 2: Go to VirtualBox > Preferences > Display > Graphics > 'Enable VBO' and set it to 'Auto'.

Disabling disk level encryption on the Linux VM

  1. Step 1: Enter the Ubuntu terminal as a root user by typing `sudo su`.
  2. Step 2: Run the command `echo -e ' a' > /etc/cryptsetup/crypttab` to disable disk level encryption.

✨ Wrapping Up

To resolve the 'Kernel driver not installed (rc=-1908)' error, try reinstalling and updating the VirtualBox support driver or disabling disk level encryption on your Linux VM. If you are still experiencing issues, consider seeking further assistance from VirtualBox's official forums or technical support.

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