Microsoft is tightening security on Windows 11 by enabling Memory Integrity on a broader range of PCs starting in October 2026. This change matters because it blocks untrusted kernel-mode code and drivers from running on your system, which raises the baseline defense against malware. Gamers should pay attention, as this security layer can introduce performance overhead that may lower frame rates on older hardware.
Microsoft expands VBS security to more PCs, risking older CPU performance
The feature relies on Virtualization-based security (VBS) to create a isolated environment for the operating system's core components. Microsoft plans to push this update through standard Windows quality updates in October 2026. Users who previously turned off Memory Integrity will not have it re-enabled automatically, giving them control over their system configuration.
The technical implementation uses VBS to ensure that only trusted kernel-mode code and drivers can operate on the device. This isolation prevents malicious software from exploiting kernel vulnerabilities to gain full system control. The update arrives as a standard quality patch rather than a major version upgrade, meaning it integrates with existing Windows Update channels.
Performance impact varies significantly based on your processor generation. Modern processors will see a minimal effect on gaming performance, while PCs with older CPUs may experience noticeable frame-rate drops in some games. The exact magnitude of these drops depends on specific hardware configurations, and Microsoft does not provide precise benchmark data for older models. Users who need maximum gaming performance can temporarily disable the feature if necessary.
We looked at the last Windows 11 update earlier while tracking stability issues, and this new security rollout follows similar patterns of balancing safety with performance. Microsoft confirmed that the change is expected to arrive through Windows quality updates in October. The company states that the impact on performance will depend largely on the hardware in use.
Source: NotebookCheck
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