Microsoft Expands Memory Integrity Security Feature to More Windows PCs

Microsoft is expanding its Memory Integrity feature to more Windows PCs starting in October 2026. The security feature, which moves kernel-mode code-integrity checks into an isolated environment, will be automatically enabled on eligible devices through quality updates. This means that PCs meeting the necessary hardware requirements will have stronger protection against attacks targeting the Windows kernel.

The expansion of Memory Integrity is part of Microsoft's existing default-enablement policy for new installations. However, this change will also apply to upgrades and clean installations on compatible devices. The company has acknowledged that the feature can affect gaming performance, particularly on older processors or those relying on software emulation, which may result in a larger performance hit.

Microsoft says that Memory Integrity performs better on newer processors with hardware features designed to accelerate isolation. However, it also notes that driver compatibility issues can prevent activation of the feature, including problems with gaming anti-cheat solutions.