How to Enable Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) in Windows 10

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Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) represents a significant leap forward in Windows 10 security, offering a hardware-isolated environment that protects critical system resources and processes from malware and sophisticated attacks. By leveraging hardware virtualization features, VBS creates a secure enclave, effectively shielding sensitive data and code from unauthorized access. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to enable VBS in Windows 10, including prerequisites, step-by-step instructions, and troubleshooting tips. Understanding and implementing VBS is crucial for bolstering your system’s defenses and mitigating the risk of cyber threats in today’s increasingly complex digital landscape.

Understanding Virtualization-Based Security

VBS is a security feature available in Windows 10 that utilizes hardware virtualization to create an isolated environment within the operating system. This isolated environment, often referred to as a “virtual secure mode” (VSM), runs alongside the regular operating system but remains separate and protected.

The Core Principles of VBS

  • Hardware Virtualization: VBS relies on the virtualization capabilities of modern processors, specifically Intel VT-x or AMD-V, to create a virtual machine-like environment. This allows sensitive operations to be executed in isolation from the rest of the system.
  • Hypervisor Code Integrity (HVCI): Also known as Memory Integrity, HVCI is a critical component of VBS. It enforces code integrity policies within the VSM, preventing unsigned or malicious code from being executed. This helps to defend against kernel-level attacks and rootkits.
  • Credential Guard: VBS can be used to protect sensitive credentials, such as NTLM hashes and Kerberos tickets, by storing them in the VSM. This makes it significantly more difficult for attackers to steal credentials and move laterally within a network.

Benefits of Enabling VBS

Enabling VBS offers several key advantages:

  • Enhanced Security: VBS provides a robust layer of protection against advanced malware, rootkits, and other sophisticated attacks that target the Windows kernel.
  • Credential Protection: By isolating sensitive credentials, VBS helps to prevent credential theft and pass-the-hash attacks, significantly reducing the risk of lateral movement.
  • Improved Code Integrity: HVCI ensures that only trusted code can execute within the VSM, preventing malicious code from compromising the system.
  • Compliance Requirements: VBS may be required for compliance with certain industry regulations and security standards.

Checking System Requirements and Compatibility

Before attempting to enable VBS, it’s essential to verify that your system meets the necessary hardware and software requirements. Failure to do so may result in errors or instability.

Hardware Requirements

  • Processor: An Intel processor with VT-x and EPT (Extended Page Tables) enabled, or an AMD processor with AMD-V and RVI (Rapid Virtualization Indexing) enabled. These virtualization extensions are crucial for creating the isolated environment required by VBS.
  • RAM: A minimum of 4 GB of RAM is recommended, although 8 GB or more is preferable for optimal performance. VBS consumes additional memory resources.
  • Firmware: UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled. Secure Boot helps to ensure that only trusted bootloaders and operating systems can be launched, further enhancing security.
  • TPM: A Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 is highly recommended for enhanced security, although VBS can function without it. TPM provides hardware-based cryptographic key storage and attestation capabilities.

Software Requirements

  • Operating System: Windows 10 Enterprise, Windows 10 Education, or Windows 10 Pro version 1703 (Creators Update) or later. VBS is not available in Windows 10 Home edition.
  • Drivers: Up-to-date drivers that are compatible with VBS. Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause conflicts and prevent VBS from functioning correctly.

Using System Information to Verify Compatibility

To check your system’s compatibility, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Windows key, type “System Information,” and press Enter.

  2. In the System Information window, look for the following entries:

    • System Summary:
      • System Type: Should indicate x64-based PC.
      • Secure Boot State: Should be “Enabled.”
    • Hardware Resources:
      • Virtualization Enabled in Firmware: Should be “Yes.”
    • Device Guard Readiness:
      • Virtualization Based Security: If already enabled, this will indicate its status (Running or Not Running).
      • Secure Boot: Should be “Enabled.”
      • DMA Protection: Ideally should be “Enabled.”
      • SMM Security Mitigations: Ideally should be “Present and Configured.”

  3. If “Virtualization Enabled in Firmware” is “No,” you need to enable virtualization in your BIOS/UEFI settings. Refer to your motherboard manufacturer’s documentation for instructions.

Enabling VBS in Windows 10

Once you’ve confirmed that your system meets the requirements, you can proceed with enabling VBS. There are several methods available, including using the Windows Security app, Group Policy Editor, and Command Prompt.

Method 1: Using the Windows Security App (Core Isolation)

This is the easiest and most user-friendly method for enabling VBS and Memory Integrity (HVCI).

  1. Press the Windows key, type “Windows Security,” and press Enter.
  2. Click on “Device Security.”
  3. Look for the “Core isolation” section. If present, click on “Core isolation details.”
  4. Toggle the “Memory integrity” switch to “On.”
  5. You will be prompted to restart your computer. Save your work and click “Restart.”

This method enables both VBS and HVCI (Memory Integrity) simultaneously. If you don’t see the “Core isolation” section, it may indicate that your system doesn’t meet the requirements or that VBS is already enabled through another method.

Method 2: Using Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc)

This method is suitable for systems running Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education.

  1. Press the Windows key, type “gpedit.msc,” and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Device Guard.
  3. Double-click on “Turn On Virtualization Based Security.”
  4. In the “Turn On Virtualization Based Security” window, select “Enabled.”
  5. Under “Virtualization Based Protection of Code Integrity,” choose one of the following options:
    • Without UEFI lock: Allows disabling VBS later.
    • With UEFI lock: Prevents disabling VBS later (requires UEFI 2.7 or higher). This option provides stronger security but makes it harder to disable VBS if issues arise.
  6. Under “Platform Security Level,” select “Secure Boot and DMA Protection” for the best security.
  7. Click “Apply” and then “OK.”
  8. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Method 3: Using Command Prompt (cmd.exe)

This method provides more control over the VBS configuration but requires more technical knowledge.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

  2. To enable VBS, run the following command:

    bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype auto

  3. To enable HVCI (Memory Integrity), run the following command:

    bcdedit /set kernelcet enabled

  4. To configure VBS with Secure Boot and DMA Protection, use the following command in an elevated PowerShell prompt:

    powershell
    Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard" -Name "EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity" -Value 1 -Type DWord
    Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard" -Name "RequirePlatformSecurityFeatures" -Value 3 -Type DWord
    Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard" -Name "HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity" -Value 1 -Type DWord
    5. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Verifying VBS is Enabled

After enabling VBS using one of the methods above, it’s important to verify that it’s functioning correctly.

Using System Information

  1. Press the Windows key, type “System Information,” and press Enter.

  2. In the System Information window, look for the following entry:

    • Device Guard Readiness: Virtualization Based Security: The value should be “Running.”

Using PowerShell

  1. Open PowerShell as an administrator.

  2. Run the following command:

    powershell
    Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object OsArchitecture, OsVersion, DeviceGuard* -AutoSize

  3. Examine the output. Look for the following properties:

    • DeviceGuardVirtualizationBasedSecurity: Should be “Enabled.”
    • DeviceGuardVirtualizationBasedSecurityStatus: Should be “Running.”
    • DeviceGuardCodeIntegrityPolicyEnforcementStatus: Should be “Enabled.”

If these values indicate that VBS is enabled and running, then the configuration was successful.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Enabling VBS can sometimes lead to issues, such as performance problems or compatibility conflicts. Here are some common troubleshooting steps:

Performance Issues

  • Driver Compatibility: Ensure that all your drivers are up to date and compatible with VBS. Incompatible drivers can cause performance degradation. Consider updating drivers for graphics cards, network adapters, and storage controllers.
  • Resource Usage: VBS consumes additional system resources, particularly RAM. If you’re experiencing performance issues, consider upgrading your RAM.
  • Application Compatibility: Some applications may not be fully compatible with VBS. Try disabling VBS temporarily to see if it resolves the issue. If it does, contact the application vendor for support.

Enabling Issues

  • Virtualization Not Enabled in BIOS/UEFI: As mentioned earlier, ensure that virtualization is enabled in your BIOS/UEFI settings.
  • Secure Boot Not Enabled: VBS requires Secure Boot to be enabled. Check your BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure that Secure Boot is active.
  • Group Policy Conflicts: If you’re using Group Policy, ensure that there are no conflicting policies that are preventing VBS from being enabled.
  • Incompatible Hardware: Verify that your hardware meets the minimum requirements for VBS, including processor, RAM, and TPM.

Disabling VBS

If you encounter persistent issues with VBS, you may need to disable it. The process for disabling VBS depends on the method you used to enable it.

  • Windows Security App: Toggle the “Memory integrity” switch to “Off.”
  • Group Policy Editor: Set the “Turn On Virtualization Based Security” policy to “Disabled.”

  • Command Prompt: Run the following commands:

    bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
    bcdedit /set kernelcet disabled

    Then, remove the registry keys set in the PowerShell prompt by running these commands:
    powershell
    Remove-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard" -Name "EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity"
    Remove-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard" -Name "RequirePlatformSecurityFeatures"
    Remove-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard" -Name "HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity"
    * If you enabled VBS with UEFI Lock, disabling it requires reinstalling Windows or using specific UEFI tools.

Best Practices for Using VBS

To maximize the benefits of VBS and minimize potential issues, follow these best practices:

  • Keep Your System Up to Date: Install the latest Windows updates and security patches to ensure that you have the most recent VBS features and security improvements.
  • Use Compatible Drivers: Ensure that all your drivers are compatible with VBS. Use the latest drivers from your hardware vendors.
  • Monitor Performance: Regularly monitor your system’s performance to identify any potential issues related to VBS.
  • Test Application Compatibility: Before deploying VBS to a large number of systems, test your critical applications to ensure that they are compatible.
  • Consider TPM 2.0: If possible, use a system with a TPM 2.0 for enhanced security.

Conclusion

Enabling Virtualization-Based Security in Windows 10 is a crucial step in protecting your system from advanced threats. By creating a hardware-isolated environment, VBS shields critical system resources and credentials from malicious code. While enabling VBS requires careful planning and consideration, the benefits in terms of enhanced security and improved code integrity are well worth the effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide and adhering to best practices, you can successfully enable VBS and significantly bolster your system’s defenses against the ever-evolving threat landscape. Remember to verify compatibility, update drivers, and monitor performance to ensure a smooth and secure VBS implementation.

What is Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) and why should I enable it?

Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) utilizes hardware virtualization features to create an isolated, secure environment within the operating system. This environment, often referred to as a “virtual secure mode” (VSM), is then used to host security-sensitive code and data. In essence, VBS shields critical system processes and cryptographic keys from malware and other attacks by running them within this isolated virtual machine, making it significantly harder for malicious software to compromise the core security of your Windows 10 system.

Enabling VBS greatly enhances the security posture of your Windows 10 computer. By isolating core system processes and sensitive data, VBS can prevent many common attack vectors used by malware. This reduces the risk of data breaches, system compromise, and other security threats. It’s particularly beneficial if you handle sensitive information or are concerned about advanced persistent threats (APTs) targeting your system.

What are the system requirements for enabling VBS in Windows 10?

To enable VBS in Windows 10, your system must meet specific hardware and software requirements. Firstly, you need a 64-bit version of Windows 10 Enterprise, Pro, or Education. Windows 10 Home edition does not support VBS. Secondly, your processor must support virtualization extensions (Intel VT-x or AMD-V) and Second Level Address Translation (SLAT). Most modern processors meet these requirements, but it’s advisable to check your processor specifications on the manufacturer’s website.

Beyond the processor, your system also requires UEFI firmware and Secure Boot enabled. Additionally, your hardware needs to be compatible with the Hypervisor Code Integrity (HVCI) feature, which works in conjunction with VBS. Sufficient RAM (at least 8GB is recommended, but 16GB is preferable) and storage space are also crucial for optimal performance with VBS enabled. Verify these requirements before attempting to enable VBS to avoid compatibility issues.

How do I check if my system meets the VBS requirements?

The easiest way to determine if your system meets the requirements for VBS is to use the System Information tool in Windows 10. Press the Windows key, type “System Information,” and select the application from the search results. In the System Information window, look for entries related to “Virtualization-based security” and “Secure Boot state”. If “Virtualization-based security” is listed as “Running” or “Enabled,” VBS is already active. If it’s listed as “Not enabled,” continue checking the other settings.

Scroll down to find “Secure Boot state.” It should be listed as “Enabled.” Then, check for entries related to “Hyper-V – Virtualization Enabled in Firmware” and “Hyper-V – Second Level Address Translation Extensions.” Both should be listed as “Yes.” If any of these entries are missing or indicate that the feature is disabled, you may need to enable them in your system’s BIOS or UEFI settings. If your hardware doesn’t support these features, you won’t be able to enable VBS.

How do I enable VBS using Group Policy Editor?

Enabling VBS through the Group Policy Editor (GPE) offers a straightforward method, especially for managing multiple computers in a domain environment. Open the Group Policy Editor by pressing the Windows key, typing “gpedit.msc,” and pressing Enter. Navigate to “Computer Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “System” > “Device Guard.” In the Device Guard section, locate the “Turn On Virtualization Based Security” policy setting.

Double-click the “Turn On Virtualization Based Security” policy setting. In the policy configuration window, select the “Enabled” option. Under “Virtualization Based Protection of Code Integrity,” choose either “Enabled with UEFI lock” (most secure, prevents disabling without BIOS access) or “Enabled without UEFI lock” (allows disabling from within Windows). Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save your changes. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect. After the restart, verify that VBS is running using the System Information tool.

How do I enable VBS using the Registry Editor?

Enabling VBS through the Registry Editor is another method, though it requires more caution. Incorrect modifications can destabilize your system. Press the Windows key, type “regedit,” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor. Navigate to the following registry key: `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard`. If the “DeviceGuard” key doesn’t exist, you’ll need to create it by right-clicking on “Control,” selecting “New,” and then “Key.”

Inside the “DeviceGuard” key, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named “EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity” and set its value to “1”. Next, create another DWORD (32-bit) Value named “RequirePlatformSecurityFeatures” and set its value to “1” to enable Secure Boot. For HVCI protection, create a DWORD (32-bit) Value named “HVCIRestartPolicy” and set its value to “1” to enable HVCI. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. After the restart, verify that VBS is running using the System Information tool.

What is Hypervisor Code Integrity (HVCI) and how does it relate to VBS?

Hypervisor Code Integrity (HVCI), also known as memory integrity, is a critical component of Virtualization-Based Security (VBS). It works by utilizing the hypervisor to restrict the code that can be loaded into the kernel. Essentially, HVCI ensures that only digitally signed and trusted code is allowed to execute in the Windows kernel. This significantly reduces the attack surface by preventing unsigned or malicious drivers and other code from running in the core of the operating system.

HVCI relies on the isolation provided by VBS to protect the code integrity policy itself. Since VBS runs in a virtual secure mode, the HVCI policy is shielded from tampering by malware or other unauthorized software. This creates a robust defense mechanism that prevents attackers from bypassing code integrity checks and injecting malicious code into the kernel. Enabling both VBS and HVCI provides a strong security foundation for Windows 10.

What are some potential performance impacts of enabling VBS?

Enabling Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) can potentially impact system performance, especially on older or less powerful hardware. The overhead introduced by virtualization, along with the additional security checks performed by HVCI, can lead to a decrease in overall performance for certain tasks. Applications that heavily rely on system resources, such as gaming or video editing, might experience a noticeable slowdown. The extent of the performance impact varies depending on your hardware configuration and the specific workloads.

While there can be a performance trade-off, the security benefits of VBS often outweigh the performance costs, especially for systems handling sensitive data or facing a higher risk of attack. The impact can be minimized by ensuring your system meets the recommended hardware requirements for VBS, including sufficient RAM and a modern processor. Regularly updating your drivers and optimizing your system can also help mitigate any potential performance issues. Testing your specific workloads after enabling VBS is crucial to determine the actual impact on your system.

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