Scope of Functions

1. Real-Time Detection and Measures: A central feature of Denuvo Anti-Cheat is real-time detection and reporting. Cheaters are reported in a web-based application system, enabling developers to quickly respond and take appropriate measures.


2. Kernel-Mode Drivers: For in-depth cheat detection, Denuvo uses kernel-mode drivers. This allows for more comprehensive monitoring and detection of cheats that operate at the kernel level, while also protecting against low-level system tampering.


3. Cross-Platform Support: Denuvo Anti-Cheat supports multiple platforms, including PC (Steam), consoles (such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch), and mobile devices. The implementation for Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox was in 2021, and for Nintendo Switch in 2022.


4. Protection Against Emulation: Specifically for console games, Denuvo Anti-Cheat provides protection against PC emulation to ensure that games cannot be illegally copied and played.

Installation directory

Denuvo Anti-Cheat is installed on Windows systems under "C:\Program Files\Denuvo Anti-Cheat\".

Anti-Cheat Criticism

Denuvo Anti-Cheat faces criticism, particularly due to its use of kernel-mode drivers. This method is generally employed by anti-cheat manufacturers to enable deep monitoring and detection of cheats.

Kernel-level anti-cheat systems like Denuvo Anti-Cheat, Easy Anti-Cheat, or Riot's Vanguard have deep access to a computer's operating system. This means they can access all hardware components and software on the system, making them vulnerable to abuse. This happened in 2013 when hackers exploited these capabilities to turn users' computers into Bitcoin miners.

False positives and compatibility issues are also common, as even legitimate software can be mistakenly blocked. This can prevent users from using harmless applications such as temperature monitoring or overclocking software, leading to system instability, frustration, and confusion. The website Secret Club has dedicated a detailed article   to this topic.

Sources

Denuvo Anti-Cheat  
Denuvo Anti-Cheat goes LIVE! A message to DOOM Eternal fans and gamers  
Denuvo’s Anti-Cheat protection is available to all Valve Steamworks partners  
Denuvo joins exclusive PlayStation®5 Tools and Middleware program to offer Anti-Cheat technology to game developers