Core Isolation (enabled via Memory Integrity in Windows 11/10) is a virtualization-based security feature that isolates Windows' core processes in a semi-virtualized environment to protect against kernel-level exploits. While it improves security, it can impact performance, especially in gaming and certain workloads.
Performance Impact Overview
Intel 13th-gen examples
- 3DMark Time Spy: No measurable difference in average scores between Core Isolation on/off.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: ~4.4% average FPS boost when Core Isolation is off, with minimal change in minimum FPS.
- AC: Valhalla: Average FPS largely unchanged, but minimum FPS drops significantly in the semi-virtualized environment.
- Cyberpunk 2077: Smaller variability between runs, but still noticeable differences depending on game engine and settings.
- Core Isolation/VBS benchmarks in 2023 (13th-gen Intel) | GPCB
General CPU/memory benchmarks
- AIDA64 tests on an overclocked Intel 9600K showed ~8.7% average performance drop when Core Isolation/Memory Integrity was enabled, with some workloads (e.g., AES, SHA3) hit harder.
- Memory latency increased from 50.4 to 57.9 ns, and memory read/write speeds dropped ~8–9%
- Core Isolation/Memory Integrity has a MAJOR effect on performance | Overclock.net
When to Turn It Off
- If you prioritize FPS stability and low-end performance in competitive or high-frame-rate games.
- If you notice stuttering, input lag, or frame drops in gameplay.
- If you use overclocking tools like Intel XTU, which require virtualization disabled.
When to Keep It On
- For maximum security against kernel-level exploits.
- If you use Windows Sandbox, Subsystem for Linux, or virtualization.
- If the performance hit is acceptable for your use case.
Core Isolation can yield 4–12% average FPS gains in some games and significant lows improvements when disabled, but it comes at the cost of security.
So, when benchmarking against Linux...