Windows 10 offers built-in security features that one can use to safeguard their computer. Some of the features are enabled by default, while others need to be configured, while others need to be enabled depending on the usage. In this post, we are sharing the list of Security features available in Windows 10.
Windows 10 Security Features
Some of these security features are available in Windows 10, while will need admin or Enterprise access to configure them.
- Windows Security
- Smart Screen
- Application Guard
- Exploit Guard
- User Account Control
- Microsoft Bitlocker
- Credential Guard
- Microsoft Defender ATP for Enterprise
1] Windows Security
It’s a built-in Antivirus and Security solution from Microsoft which comes pre-installed in Windows 10. You can call it the first line of defense that makes sure you don’t need a third-party anti-virus, a firewall configurator and anything else. You can read more about some of the important features offered by the Windows Security App.
2] SmartScreen
When using a browser or an app when you download a file, the SmartScreen feature can block it instantly. It happens when an earlier reported file has been marked as malware or coming from the phishing website. SmartScreen is enabled for Microsoft Edge, Microsoft Store
3] Windows Defender Application Guard
Application Guard makes sure anyone using Microsoft Edge stays protected. Any thread devices for Edge is mitigated using Microsoft’s Hyper-V virtualization technology. Access to actual memory, local storage, other installed applications, are hidden from the attacker. It is part of the Windows Defender Device Guard.
4] Windows Defender Exploit Guard
Exploit Guard is a pre-boot security feature that protects devices and systems from boot-level malware. If the attacker tries to attach a driver which doesn’t carry a digital certificate, then it will not load Windows or the driver. It only allows authorized files, drivers and apps.
5] User Account Control
UAC has been there from sometime, and we all have been annoyed by it now and then. Ever seen the screen which pops up whenever you plan to install a software? Its because the software ran using non-admin privilege access but needs admin privileges to complete the process. That’s why you get the prompt to allow the permission for those steps to complete. So any software running in the background will not be able to install anything without permission.
6] Microsoft Bitlocker
BitLocker is a drive encryption solution from Microsoft which makes sure any unauthorized data access is inaccessible by third party software without a key. It is available for Windows 10 Professional and Enterprise.
Read: How to reset Windows Security app in Windows 10.
7] Windows Defender Credential Guard
Available in Windows 10 Enterprise and Server 2016, Credential Guard uses virtualization security to make sure credentials are not accessible by everyone, especially software and browsers. It safeguards Kerberos Ticket Granting Tickets, NTLM password hashes, and domain credentials.
8] Microsoft Defender ATP for Enterprise
The solution is an umbrella service that an Enterprise can use. It includes the following features
- Threat & Vulnerability Management
- Attack surface reduction
- Next-generation protection
- Endpoint detection and response
- Automated investigation and remediation
- Microsoft Threat Experts
Windows 10 has come a long way and is secure than ever. Consumers can use Windows Security app while Enterprise can use Defender ATP to safeguard. I hope the post was able to highlight the most prominent Windows 10 Security Features.
