Which Windows 10 Features are Required in Order to Run Virtual Secure Mode (VSM)?

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is more crucial than ever. With the rise of virtualization and cloud computing, it’s essential to have robust security measures in place to protect your online presence. One such measure is Virtual Secure Mode (VSM), a feature that allows you to run virtual machines with enhanced security features.

Understanding Windows 10 Features for VSM

To run VSM on Windows 10, you’ll need to ensure that certain features are enabled. Let’s dive into the key requirements:

Hyper-V Virtualization Technology

The foundation of VSM is Hyper-V, a virtualization technology built into Windows 10. To use VSM, you must have Hyper-V enabled on your system.

This requirement might seem obvious, but it’s essential to note that Hyper-V only works with compatible hardware and software configurations. Make sure your system meets the minimum requirements for running Hyper-V:

64-bit processor
4 GB RAM (8 GB or more recommended)
BIOS-level support for virtualization (VT-x or AMD-V)
A supported CPU architecture, such as Intel Core i3 or higher or AMD Ryzen 3 or higher

Virtual Secure Mode Prerequisites

In addition to Hyper-V, there are a few other prerequisites you’ll need to meet before running VSM:

Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise Edition

VSM is only available on Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise editions. If you’re using the Home edition, you won’t be able to run VSM.

Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC)

WDAC is a security feature that allows you to control and manage applications running in your virtual machines. To use VSM, WDAC must be enabled on your system.

Device Guard

Device Guard is another security feature that helps protect your system from malware and other threats. It’s required for running VSM, so make sure it’s enabled on your system.

Setting Up Virtual Secure Mode (VSM)

Now that you’ve met the prerequisites, let’s walk through the process of setting up VSM:

Open the Hyper-V Manager and click on “New” to create a new virtual machine.
Choose the virtual machine configuration, including CPU, memory, and network settings.
Install your operating system (OS) of choice within the virtual machine.
Configure your OS as needed, such as installing software or configuring network settings.
Enable VSM on the virtual machine by going to “Action” > “Virtual Secure Mode” and selecting “Enable.”

With these steps, you’ll be able to run your virtual machine in Virtual Secure Mode, providing an additional layer of security for your online activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VSM on Windows 10

We’ve covered the basics of setting up VSM on Windows 10, but you might have some questions. Here are a few FAQs to help clarify any doubts:

Q: Can I run multiple virtual machines in VSM?

A: Yes, you can run multiple virtual machines within VSM, as long as your system meets the minimum requirements.

Q: Are there any performance implications for running VSM?

A: Running VSM might result in slightly reduced system performance due to the added security layers. However, the impact should be minimal for most users.

Q: Can I use VSM with other virtualization platforms?

A: No, VSM is specifically designed for Windows 10 and Hyper-V. It’s not compatible with other virtualization platforms like VMware or VirtualBox.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve covered the essential Windows 10 features required to run Virtual Secure Mode (VSM). By understanding these requirements and following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to set up VSM and enjoy enhanced security for your online activities. Remember to meet the prerequisites, including Hyper-V virtualization technology, Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise edition, Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC), and Device Guard.

If you’re interested in learning more about VSM or exploring other cybersecurity topics, be sure to check out our related articles:

Stay safe online and happy computing!