Memory Integrity is a Windows security control that uses Virtualization-based Security (VBS) to help stop untrusted kernel-mode code, including drivers, from loading. Because it runs at the kernel level, this protection sits close to the operating system’s most privileged code and can make it harder for malicious or tampered components to gain deep control.
In cyber security, Memory Integrity matters because many advanced attacks aim for kernel access to disable defenses, hide persistence, or manipulate system behavior. By enforcing stricter code-integrity checks in an isolated trust boundary, Windows can reduce the attack surface for rootkits, vulnerable drivers, and other low-level abuse. Defenders also use it as part of a hardening strategy, but they must test for driver compatibility, since older or unsigned drivers may fail to load when the control is enabled.