Beginning February 19, Fortnite will implement new anti-cheat protocols on Windows PCs, mandating the activation of three key security features: Secure Boot, TPM, and IOMMU. This initiative follows a trend set by other prominent games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 and Battlefield 6, which introduced similar requirements last year, alongside titles such as Valorant, Highguard, and League of Legends. Secure Boot is a fundamental hardware-level security feature embedded in a PC's BIOS, designed to prevent malicious software from compromising the system. It acts as an additional defense layer against potential threats to your computer and, crucially for competitive multiplayer games like Fortnite, thwarts the use of kernel-level cheats. TPM, specifically TPM 2.0, or "Trusted Platform Module," operates similarly to Secure Boot as another hardware-based security mechanism. IOMMU, or "I/O Memory Management Unit," while also serving security purposes, focuses on input/output operations.

For the majority of users, these new requirements will likely be met with minimal disruption. Both TPM and Secure Boot are typically enabled by default on newer Windows 11 systems, meaning many players will already comply or can easily activate these settings without needing new hardware. However, players with older machines may need to update to the latest operating system, and if these settings are currently disabled, accessing and adjusting them within the BIOS settings will be necessary. It is highly advisable to follow a detailed guide when modifying BIOS settings, as incorrect adjustments can lead to system instability or even temporary display issues, as some users have experienced. Despite potential initial inconveniences for a segment of the player base, this proactive measure is essential for fostering a fair and competitive gaming environment. It is anticipated that as more games adopt such security standards, any challenges associated with their implementation will diminish over time.

Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, has stated that approximately 95% of PC players possess a Windows 11-compatible machine, implying that most either already meet the criteria or can enable them without hardware upgrades. Furthermore, it's important to note that competitive Fortnite tournaments have already required Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 since February 2025, meaning these changes will primarily affect players who have not participated in such events. The implementation of these robust security features underscores a commitment to maintaining integrity within the gaming community, ensuring that skill and strategy, rather than illicit advantages, determine success. This forward-thinking approach will ultimately benefit all players by creating a more equitable and enjoyable competitive landscape.