Details about DMA and its importance
Direct Memory Access (DMA) is a high-level cheating method used in video games that is particularly difficult to detect. This guide explains what DMA is, how it works, and requirements for using it.
DMA is a feature that allows hardware to access system memory directly, bypassing the CPU. Since DMA operates at the hardware level outside normal OS operations, it can manipulate game data without detection by traditional anti-cheat systems that monitor software behavior.
DMA uses a small board (approximately palm-sized) that fits into a PCIe slot, similar to a graphics card slot. This board connects via data cable to a second computer.
Credit: Ufrisk - Original Creator of PciLeech
Here’s what a DMA board looks like - it’s very thin and will generally fit in any extra PCIe slot:
If your graphics card blocks remaining PCIe slots, you may need to purchase a PCIe extender.
To determine if your motherboard supports DMA:
WIN+R
and type msinfo32.exe
If Kernel DMA Protection shows as ON, you’ll need to disable it in your BIOS settings. Note that some motherboards (like certain Gigabyte models) cannot disable this feature and therefore don’t support DMA.
DMA requires two computers to function. For the Gaming PC:
Must have one of:
External PSU may be needed to power DMA when using M.2 conversion
The second computer can be either desktop or laptop with:
Minimum Specs:
Recommended Specs:
For fuser usage, the secondary computer’s CPU/GPU must support output matching the main screen’s resolution. Consult our community for compatibility guidance.