Windows 8 Security

There are some that dislike the new Windows 8, some like Windows 8 and some that are neutral. Windows 8 has some advantages and disadvantages over Windows 7 and XP. Windows is no longer supporting XP so any security holes in that operating system won’t get fixed. Windows 7 is great, but still has it’s flaws. Windows 8 is emerging, but still has question marks. However, before you make some rash decisions on discounting Windows 8 and their features let’s talk about the security Windows 8 provides in the ever so changing cyber security world. 

Windows 8 provides some great features not offered from Windows 7. One of the newest security feature includes a new boot system called the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). This replaces the old Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) as we have been accustomed to in the past. UEFI adds new boot features and as well speeds up the startup process (something we all would like). One of the features with the new UEFI is the Secure Boot. This feature helps prevent and reduce unauthorized operating systems and malware from running at startup. The potential of Secure Boot would make it more difficult for outsiders to access your files by way of bootable discs or thumb drives and having root kits infecting your computer. If you have an older computer that had Windows 7 installed or an earlier version chances are you still have the BIOS architecture with no option for UEFI, so you maybe have to dig into your wallet and by a newer machine to take advantage of Secure Boot.

Another interesting feature recently implemented is the Early Launch Anti-malware (ELAM). ELAM is basically a driver that launches first before other boot start drivers. This driver helps evaluate those boot drivers and helps the Windows kernel determine whether or not they should be loaded and initializes, thus preventing such malware to infect your computer. System administrators also can manipulate it’s effectiveness by using custom policies which is extremely helpful for businesses.

Also with Windows 8 there is no need to install Windows Security Essentials, Microsoft’s free anti-virus software if you plan on staying free and using that service. Why? That’s because Windows 8 has antivirus already integrated into the operating system with Windows Defender. However, if you buy a new computer and have a third-party antivirus program installed, Windows Defender could be disabled already so just be aware. However, don’t think your computer is completely safe from attacks. Be proactive. Be informed. Compare anti-virus programs and weigh the pros and cons of each. Most important of all make sure you have some sort of anti-virus and make sure it is active.

There are a couple more added security features included with Windows 8 such as Sandboxing with AppContainer and the Portable Enterprise Security. The sandboxing with AppContainer is an added feature due to the ability to install apps and containing those apps if they potentially are infected malicious apps. The portable enterprise security uses a feature called Windows To Go. This feature if adopted by a business allows a pre-configured installation of Windows 8 can be installed to a approved USB thumb drive and be launched from it. 

All in all Windows 8 has plenty of great security features that are better than Windows 7 as a base package. Honestly, I am pleasantly pleased with Windows 8 and it’s security despite all the negative comments around saying it is too much change. As times are changing and the cyber threats continue to manifest, I accept these changes and Windows 8.