How to Turn Off Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) in Windows 11
Disabling Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) in Windows 11 isn’t rocket science, but it can feel a bit convoluted, especially when trying to squeeze the utmost performance from your machine. VBS is supposed to keep your system safe, locking down critical processes, but sometimes it just gets in the way — like when demanding apps or games are running. Turning it off definitely feels like it can give that extra boost.
Finding Your Way to the Core Isolation Settings
First off, hit that Windows key or click the Windows icon down at the bottom-left. Start searching for “Core Isolation”. It should pop up pretty quickly, but if not, you can navigate through the menus:
Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Device security > Core isolation details.
> If you want to skip clicking, Windows + I gets you right into Settings, then just follow the trail.
Diving Into Core Isolation
Once you’re in the Core Isolation area, click on “Core Isolation Details.” Here’s where you can see what’s enabled. Look for the “Memory Integrity” toggle. Turning this off is key to disabling VBS. Seriously, that’s where the magic happens — and don’t forget some changes might need a good reboot to fully apply.
Pro tip: You might want to run this command in an admin Command Prompt to disable Hyper-V (which is pretty much tied to VBS). Use this line:
DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:Microsoft-Hyper-V-All.
> It’s kind of hilarious how disabling one thing leads to needing to battle another, but hey, that’s Windows for ya.
Reboot Time
After flipping that toggle, the system’s going to need a restart. Just hit the power icon from the Start Menu and restart. Simple, but sometimes it feels like waiting for a pot of water to boil. Anyway, check using systeminfo in the Command Prompt once it’s back on — you’ll see if Hyper-V is still lurking around.
Before Diving In: Some Things to Keep In Mind
- Backup Your Stuff: Seriously, do it. Just in case something goes sideways or you change your mind. Better safe than sorry.
- Potential Risks: Knowing you’re opening the door a bit wider to potential malware could be unnerving. If you’re going to disable VBS, consider upping your other protection game.
- System Compatibility: A heads up — not all setups will play nice after you make this change, so check your hardware specs if things go funky.
- Admin Rights: Make sure you’re logged in as an admin. You know how it is, everything cool requires top-level clearance.
- Stay Updated: Just because VBS is off doesn’t mean you should forget the regular updates—Windows security patches come in handy!
Quick FAQ on VBS Troubles
What is this VBS thing anyway?
It’s a Windows feature that sets up a protected environment for critical processes using hardware virtualization. It keeps out nasty stuff, but sometimes those extra layers can really slow things down.
Why would someone want to turn this off?
Performance is often the big one. If you’re gaming or using heavy applications, the extra security might make things drag a bit. Sometimes, you just want the machine to speed through tasks without the additional oversight.
Will my computer speed up after turning VBS off?
For a lot of folks, yes. Quicker access to system resources could definitely lead to faster performance. Just make sure memory integrity is one of the first things you tackle.
Is it a bad idea to disable VBS?
That’s the tricky part. Disabling it can open your system up to vulnerabilities. If you did decide to do it, having a solid antivirus can help balance things out.
How to check if VBS is enabled?
Run msinfo32 from the Run dialog (Windows + R) to peek at your system summary. Look for “Virtualization-Based Security Services Running” to see if it’s a yes or a no.
Just a final thought: Adjusting VBS feels like trading speed for security. If it results in peppier performance for specific tasks, it might just be the right call. Every system is different, so what works well on one may not on another. Got to love how every update can become a mini adventure.
Weigh the pros and cons, take your time, and hopefully this shaves off a few hours of hunting down the best way to make your Windows 11 work more like you want it.