If your Windows 11 PC feels slower than expected, disabling VBS (Virtualization-Based Security) might cross your mind. Many users notice performance gains in gaming, development, or heavy workloads after turning it off. But here’s the problem: VBS is a core Microsoft security feature, designed to isolate critical processes from malware.

So, should you sacrifice performance for safety? The good news: you can disable VBS without compromising security—if you follow the right steps and apply alternative safeguards. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to do that, why it matters, and what to watch out for.

Summary Table — Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling VBS Without Compromising Security

What is VBS and Why Does It Matter?

Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) is a Microsoft feature that uses hardware virtualization (like Hyper-V) to create a secure memory zone. This isolated environment protects against rootkits, credential theft, and advanced malware attacks.

For most businesses and security-conscious users, VBS is a safety net. But gamers, developers, and performance-driven users often find it slows things down. That’s where making an informed choice comes in.

Since VBS impacts both performance and protection, let’s explore when it makes sense to disable it.

When Should You Disable VBS?

Disabling VBS isn’t for everyone. You should only consider turning it off if:

• You’re a gamer or creative professional seeking maximum performance.

• You run benchmarks or high-performance apps where every frame or second counts.

• You use third-party security tools that overlap with VBS protections.

On the other hand, keep VBS enabled if:

• You handle sensitive corporate or personal data.

• You rely on BitLocker, Credential Guard, or Secure Boot.

• You’re in a regulated industry (finance, healthcare, government).

If you’ve decided performance outweighs potential risks, let’s go through the process step by step.

Step 1: Check If VBS Is Enabled

Before changing anything, confirm VBS status:

1. Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter.
2. In the System Information window, scroll down to Virtualization-Based Security.
3. If it says Running, VBS is active. If it says Not enabled, you don’t need to disable it.

Once you know the status, you can decide on the right method to disable it.

Step 2: Disable VBS via Windows Settings

For most users, Windows Settings is the simplest way:

1. Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security.
2. Click Device Security > Core Isolation Details.
3. Toggle Memory Integrity off.
4. Restart your PC when prompted.

This removes the main performance hit from VBS while keeping other protections intact.

Step 3: Advanced Methods (Registry or Group Policy)

If you need full control or the Settings toggle doesn’t work, use one of these methods:

Registry Editor

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard

3. Set EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity to 0.
4. Restart your system.

Group Policy Editor (Pro/Enterprise editions)

1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Go to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Device Guard
3. Set Turn On Virtualization Based Security to Disabled.
4. Reboot your machine.

This approach ensures full deactivation of VBS.

Step 4: Restart and Verify

After reboot, repeat the msinfo32 check. If VBS shows Not enabled, the process worked. Test your performance-heavy apps or games to confirm the improvement.

If something breaks (like BitLocker warnings or device security alerts), you may need to re-enable VBS or strengthen your alternative defenses.

Step 5: Strengthen Security Without VBS

Since disabling VBS removes a security layer, compensate with other measures:

• Keep Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 enabled in BIOS.
• Use a trusted antivirus/endpoint protection.
• Apply Windows Updates regularly.
• Enable firewall and network protections.
• Create regular system backups to an external drive or cloud.

These steps ensure you keep strong protection without VBS slowing your system down.

Disabling VBS can boost performance, especially for gamers and professionals, but it must be done carefully. By following the right steps and applying alternative protections, you can disable VBS without compromising security.

Key Takeaways

• VBS protects your system using virtualization but may slow performance.
• Check if it’s enabled before making changes.
• Disable via Settings for simplicity or Registry/Group Policy for full control.
• Restart and verify changes with msinfo32.
• Compensate with strong security measures like antivirus, firewalls, and updates.

Topic Cluster Suggestions

• How to Benchmark Your SSD or HDD on Windows 11

• Windows 11 Bug Affecting SSDs and HDDs

• What is Windows Core Isolation and should you disable it?

• How to optimize Windows 11 for gaming performance

• A guide to Secure Boot, TPM, and UEFI security settings

• Best antivirus software for Windows 11 (with or without VBS)

• How to benchmark Windows performance before and after disabling VBS

• The role of Credential Guard and Device Guard in Windows security

• Step-by-step: Re-enabling VBS if you change your mind

FAQs

What happens if I disable VBS in Windows 11?

You may gain performance but lose certain protections against advanced malware and credential theft.

Does disabling VBS improve gaming performance?

Yes, benchmarks show measurable gains in frame rates and responsiveness on some systems.

Is it safe to disable VBS?

It’s safe if you use strong alternative protections like antivirus, firewall, and updates.

Can I re-enable VBS later?

Yes, you can toggle it back via Windows Settings, Registry, or Group Policy.

Do all PCs have VBS enabled by default?

Not always. Many OEM systems ship with VBS enabled, but custom builds may not.