Though Microsoft Windows Vista isn't perfect, it is the most secure version of Windows ever created. Value-added resellers, systems integrators and security consultants should know how to use the new features available, so get tips from Brien Posey about how to use the code signing, Windows Defender and Secure Startup features, and learn more about features and adoption considerations from Michael Cobb.
Vista's security features: What to expect
Ever since Windows Vista was initially announced, Microsoft has claimed that it will be the most secure version of Windows ever created. Although Vista does offer a lot of promising new security features, you may be wondering what you can do to take advantage of those features once Vista is finally released toward the end of the year. In this article, I will attempt to answer this question by discussing some of Vista's new security features and the impact that they will likely have on you.
Get details on code signing, Windows Defender and Secure Startup features.
Windows Vista: Security issues to consider
Automakers are certainly clever. A consumer will be perfectly happy with the car he or she owns, and then automakers bring out new models featuring all the latest belles and whistles, luring buyers back into the showrooms. Inspired perhaps by that automaker savvy, Microsoft is hoping to inspire some OS envy with the release of Windows Vista. After five years in the making, Windows Vista's shiny new Aero interface will soon be found on home PCs everywhere. But the choice to upgrade enterprise machines has to be based on what's under the hood, not how it looks. While Microsoft touts hundreds of security improvements in Vista, are they really going to make life easier for system administrators?
Familiarize yourself further with Vista security features and adoption considerations.
About the authors
Brien Posey, MCSE, is a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional for his work with Windows 2000 Server and IIS. He has served as CIO for a nationwide chain of hospitals and was once in charge of IT security for Fort Knox. As a freelance technical writer, he has written for Microsoft, TechTarget, CNET, ZDNet, MSD2D, Relevant Technologies and other technology companies. You can visit his personal Web site at www.brienposey.com.
Michael Cobb, CISSP-ISSAP is the founder and managing director of Cobweb Applications Ltd., a consultancy that offers IT training and support in data security and analysis. He co-authored the book IIS Security and has written numerous technical articles for leading IT publications. Mike is the guest instructor for several SearchSecurity Security Schools and, as a SearchSecurity.com site expert, answers user questions on application security and platform security.
