Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity (HVCI) is a security feature in Windows that leverages the capabilities of the Windows Hypervisor to protect the integrity of kernel-mode code. It is a part of Device Guard, which helps prevent unsigned or malicious code from running in kernel mode. This feature is particularly useful for enhancing security in environments where protecting the operating system from sophisticated attacks is crucial.

Understanding HVCI:

HVCI uses the Windows Hypervisor to enforce restrictions on kernel memory pages, ensuring that only code signed by trusted authorities can execute. This prevents malicious code from executing, even if it manages to gain access to kernel-mode memory.

Prerequisites:

1. Hardware Requirements:

   • A 64-bit processor with Second Level Address Translation (SLAT).
   • Virtualization extensions like Intel VT-x or AMD-V.
   • Hardware-based Data Execution Prevention (DEP).

2. Software Requirements:

   • Windows 10 Enterprise, Education, or Pro version 1607 or later.
   • Windows Server 2016 or later.

Examples:

1. Enable Virtualization in BIOS:

   • Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing F2, F10, DEL, or ESC during startup).
   • Locate the virtualization settings and enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V.
   • Save changes and exit the BIOS.

2. Enable Hyper-V:

   • Open PowerShell as an Administrator and run the following command to enable Hyper-V:

     Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Hyper-V -All

   • Restart your computer to apply changes.

3. Enable HVCI:

   • Open Windows Security by searching for it in the Start menu.
   • Navigate to "Device Security" > "Core Isolation Details."
   • Turn on "Memory Integrity" to enable HVCI.

4. Verify HVCI Status:

   • Open a Command Prompt as an Administrator and run the following command:

     systeminfo.exe

   • Look for the "Virtualization-based security" section to confirm HVCI is running.

Troubleshooting:

• If HVCI cannot be enabled, ensure that all hardware requirements are met and that virtualization is enabled in the BIOS.
• Check for incompatible drivers or software that may interfere with HVCI.