Upcoming security features of Windows 8 Enterprise edition

In a recent post we discussed about Windows 8 security features for home users. This post talks about the security features of Windows 8 that caters to enterprises. Enterprise channels face different threats and hence require customized security features. Windows 8 Enterprise focuses on organizational needs but is only available on a Software Assurance contract and a volume licensing program. What this means is that enterprises will need to commit to a long-term relationship with Microsoft and expend more resources to avail these features.

Antoine Leblond, corporate VP of Windows Web Services says – “Windows 8 is enterprise ready by design. Adding features that bring new possibilities in mobility, productivity and security, Windows 8 will delight developers, IT professionals and the employees they support.” In addition to Windows 8 Pro features like Bitlocker and (EFS) Encrypting File System for encryption, here are the security features for enterprise clients.

Applocker
An administrator controls the installation of applications thanks to Applocker. He also has the option to create policies that govern the functionality of specific apps. Windows 8 offers several new programs that work in sync with the Metro UI and Applocker extends to them in addition to the traditional desktop apps.

DirectAccess
Coming in as a straight replacement of VPN, DirectAccess grants remote computers access to internal networks via simple Internet access. DirectAccess lets organizations apply patches and maintain compliance policies with utmost ease. Unlike VPN, this feature does not require a user to launch a particular application.

Windows To Go
The advent of BYOD policies demand security measures and disaster recovery tools. Windows To Go provides the ability to carry a Windows 8 corporate image on a USB device. So a user can install an enterprise oriented and customized Windows 8 OS on a machine running Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 at any location. Windows To Go also transfers Windows update policies and corporate anti-malware solutions.

BranchCache
In order to minimize network bandwidth consumption, BranchCache allows PCs to cache URLs, files and other content. Once cached, this data is then locally shared across all systems using a Peer to Peer (P2P) architecture. This helps to prevent redundant downloads across a WAN and boosts network performance as a result.

However, it is too soon to predict if these revamped security features will seal enterprises against enterprise threats. It is understandable that there is no sure shot or fool-proof way to safeguard enterprises against new threats that accompany the usage of emerging technology and platforms. Undoubtedly, the need for an added robust security solution then becomes quintessential. Quick Heal has a range of enterprise solutions that are packed with several additional features that protect against the latest security threats, provide anti-theft measures, firewall control and provide centralized management and deployment.

Moreover, Quick Heal and Microsoft are technology partners. That goes to say that we share a high degree of interoperability with Windows 8. With all these security features combined, organizations can rest assured that their security will be in the best hands.