Microsoft Prepares an Unpleasant Surprise for Windows 11 Gamers

Starting next month, Microsoft will begin activating the memory integrity feature in Windows 11 on more devices, warning that it may reduce gaming performance.

The protection operates at the system kernel level and blocks the execution of malicious code and drivers. However, Microsoft acknowledges that on some configurations, it affects gaming performance.

Microsoft Program Manager Peter Waxman explained that Windows updates will enable memory integrity on suitable devices, and along with it, activate Virtualization-based Security if necessary.

The feature only allows trusted code and kernel drivers to run. On newer processors, the impact is usually less, while on older systems, a noticeable drop in FPS may occur in certain games.

If the user previously disabled the protection manually, the update will not automatically re-enable it. You can check the function's status and change the setting in the "Windows Security" application. Microsoft recommends re-enabling the protection after finishing a gaming session.