Windows 10/11 is endowed with numerous security features to safeguard your system from malicious threats. Memory Integrity is one of those features. This security attribute safeguards against unauthorized applications and malware that attempt to access vital system files and memory. Â
By default, Memory Integrity is activated on devices running compatible hardware with Windows 10/11. However, there may be instances when users are prompted with an error message indicating that Memory Integrity has been disabled. In this discussion, we’ll explore Memory Integrity and provide simple solutions to fix the “Memory Integrity is turned off” error message on Windows 10/11.
What is Memory Integrity?
Memory Integrity is a security feature in Windows 10 & 11 that helps protect your computer from malicious attacks. It uses virtualization technology to create a secure environment for important parts of the operating system.
When Memory Integrity is enabled, it checks if the core parts of Windows haven’t been modified by hackers. This makes it harder for them to exploit vulnerabilities or inject harmful code into your computer.
Enabling Memory Integrity requires compatible hardware and may affect some software or device drivers. It’s important to test compatibility before turning it on, especially in professional or specialized environments. Overall, Memory Integrity adds an extra layer of security to your Windows system. Here’s a detailed article on Virtualization based protection by Microsoft.
Also Read: How to Split the Screen on Windows 10/11
How to Fix Memory Integrity is Turned Off Error in Windows?
If you come across the error message Memory Integrity is turned off on your Windows 10/11 device, there are several solutions you can try to fix the issue. In this article, we will discuss 6 step-by-step methods to resolve the Memory Integrity is turned off error in Windows.
We have fixed it on Windows 11 but the steps are almost similar to Windows 10 also.
Fix 1: Enable Memory Integrity in Windows Security
The first and easiest solution for Memory Integrity is turned off error message is to enable Memory Integrity in Windows Security. To do this, follow these steps:
Step 1: Click the Windows Start button and type Windows Security in the search bar.
Step 2: Click on the Windows Security app from the search results.
Step 3: Click on the Device Security option in the Windows Security app.
Step 4: Click the Core isolation details link under the Core isolation section.
Step 5: Toggle on the Memory integrity option.
Step 6: Restart your device to apply the changes.
Fix 2: Update Your Device Drivers
If you are still experiencing the Memory Integrity is turned off error, one solution may be to update your device drivers. Outdated device drivers can cause various issues on your system, including this error. Here is a step-by-step guide to updating your device drivers:
Step 1: Click the Windows Start button and type Device Manager in the search bar. You can also read our detailed article on 6 Ways to Open Device Manager on Windows 10 & 11.
Step 2: Click on the Device Manager app from the search results.
Step 3: In the Device Manager window, locate the device driver that needs to be updated.
Step 4: Right-click on the device driver and select Update driver.
Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update process.
Step 6: Restart your device.
Fix 3: Scan Your Computer for Malware
Malware infections can cause problems on your computer, including the Memory Integrity is turned off error. You can use Windows Security or third-party antivirus software to check for malware. To scan your computer with Windows Security, follow these steps:
Step 1: Click the Start button and type Windows Security in the search bar.
Step 2: Click the Windows Security app from the search results.
Step 3: In the app, click Virus & threat protection.
Step 4: Click Scan options.
Step 5: Select Full scan and click Scan now.
Step 6: Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the scan.
Step 7: Restart your computer.
Fix 4: Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software
If you encounter an issue where the Memory Integrity feature on your Windows 10/11 device is turned off, third-party antivirus software may be the culprit. To rectify this, you may need to disable your antivirus software temporarily. Here’s how:
Step 1: Look for the antivirus software icon on the taskbar.
Step 2: Right-click on the icon and check if there is an option to disable it.
Step 3: If you can’t find an option, open the software and turn off and disable it from settings.
Step 4: Once done, reboot your device.
Fix 5: Update Your System
To remedy the issue of Memory Integrity being turned off, it is recommended that you update your computer system by installing the latest system updates provided by Microsoft. These updates are frequently released to enhance system performance and troubleshoot problems. Here is a step-by-step guide to initiate the update process:
Step 1: Press Win + S and type Settings in the search bar.
Step 2: Open the Settings application.
Step 3: Under Settings, click on Windows Update.
Step 5: Finally, click on the Check for updates.
Step 6: If the latest updates are available, click the Install button to download and install them.
Step 7: Restart your device.
Fix 6: Enable Virtualization Technology in BIOS
It is imperative to enable the virtualization-based security technology integrated into your system’s BIOS to maintain optimal performance of the Memory Integrity function. Without this feature, isolating essential system files and memory from concurrent processes would be impossible, preventing the effective operation of the Memory Integrity feature.
Step 1: Restart your device to initiate the process.
Step 2: Press the BIOS key, which varies by the device manufacturer, but is typically F2, F10, F12, or Delete.
Step 3: Locate the Virtualization or Intel VT-x option in BIOS.
Step 4: Toggle on the Virtualization or Intel VT-x option.
Step 5: Save the changes made and exit BIOS.
Step 6: Restart your device to complete the process.
FAQs
1. What is Memory Integrity in Windows 10/11?
Memory Integrity is a security attribute within Windows 10/11, which leverages virtualization-based security technology to insulate vital system files and memory from other processes.
2. Why is Memory Integrity deactivated on my Windows 10/11 device?
Memory Integrity may be deactivated on your Windows 10/11 device if your hardware does not support virtualization-based security or has a software disagreement.
3. How do I activate Memory Integrity on my Windows 10/11 device?
To activate Memory Integrity on your Windows 10/11 device, go to Windows Security, Device Security, Core isolation details, Memory integrity, and toggle on the option.
4. What can I do if the Memory Integrity is deactivated error persists?
Suppose the Memory Integrity is deactivated error persists. In that case, you can attempt to update your device drivers, check your system for malware, disable third-party antivirus software, update your system, or enable virtualization technology in BIOS.
5. Can I employ Memory Integrity on a device that does not support virtualization-based security?
Memory Integrity necessitates virtualization-based security technology to insulate crucial system files and memory from other processes. You cannot utilize the Memory Integrity feature if your device does not support virtualization-based security.
Recommended: How to Get Help in Windows 11
Conclusion
Memory Integrity is a valuable security attribute in Windows 10/11 that can help safeguard your system against attacks.
If you encounter the Memory Integrity is deactivated error message on your Windows 10/11 device, there are several solutions you can try as shared above. Apart from this, it is critical to keep your system up-to-date with the latest updates and security patches to ensure that Memory Integrity and other security features function correctly.
If you still encounter issues, consider contacting Microsoft support for further assistance. We hope that this solves your problems. Till next time, Ciao!
