> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://gandyhacks.gitbook.io/gandyhacks-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://gandyhacks.gitbook.io/gandyhacks-docs/individual-guides/disable-virtualization-based-security.md).

# Disable Virtualization Based Security

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Check Whether VBS is Enabled

Before changing anything, verify if VBS is enabled:

* Press `Windows + R`, type `msinfo32`, and press Enter.
* In the System Information window, scroll down and look for:
  * **Virtualization-based Security** → If it says "Running", it's enabled.
  * **Device Guard** and **Credential Guard** may also be relevant.
    {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Turn Off Core Isolation in Windows (Optional but Recommended)

1. Open **Settings** → **Privacy & Security** → **Windows Security**.
2. Click **Device Security**.
3. Under **Core Isolation**, click **Core isolation details**.
4. Turn **Memory Integrity** to **Off**.
5. Reboot the system.
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Enter BIOS/UEFI Settings

1. Reboot your PC.
2. During startup, press the correct key to enter BIOS/UEFI (common keys: `Del`, `F2`, `F10`, `Esc`, or `F12` depending on your motherboard or PC brand).
3. If unsure, look for a message like “Press F2 to enter Setup” during boot.
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Disable Virtualization Features in BIOS

Inside the BIOS/UEFI interface:

1. Navigate to **Advanced**, **Security**, or **CPU Configuration** section (varies by manufacturer).
2. Look for and disable the following options:
   * **Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x)** or **AMD-V**
   * **Intel VT-d** (for I/O virtualization)
   * **SVM Mode** (on AMD systems)
   * **Memory Protection Extensions (MPX)**
   * **Hyper-V** or **Virtualization Support**
3. Save changes and exit (usually `F10`, then confirm "Yes").

{% hint style="info" %}
The exact names may differ by motherboard (check manual or on-screen help).
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Reboot and Confirm

1. After the system restarts, open `msinfo32` again.
2. Confirm that **Virtualization-based Security** is now **Not enabled**.
   {% endstep %}
   {% endstepper %}

### Additional Notes

* On some systems (like laptops from Dell, HP, Lenovo), BIOS settings may be under vendor-specific menus like:
  * **System Configuration**
  * **Advanced Security**
  * **Virtualization Technology**
* You might also need to disable **Secure Boot** in BIOS if it's tied to VBS.
* If the VBS settings still persist, you may need to adjust Group Policy or Registry settings in Windows. Make a support ticket in the discord if this is the case..


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