Windows 8 Beta
Windows 8 to have advanced security feature for avoiding windows 8 problems
Title – Security improvements
Windows 8 and the new features associated with it has become the most discussed topic in the computing world. The Metro User Interface and Immersive browser have been able to capture the hearts of all. As we are still waiting for the release of the new operating system, Microsoft released its beta version for free, adding to the excitement and curiosity.
Security focused approach
In its attempt to develop the state-of-the-art Windows 8, the emphasis of Microsoft was on implementing a protection mechanism which is highly secured for avoiding all possible Windows 8 problems. So the first step towards it was to create an in-built antivirus in Windows 8. This plan was initially suspended because of the opposition from third party anti-virus developers. However, things are now in a positive note since Microsoft has given invitation for vendors to check the compatibility of anti-virus filter drivers with Windows 8. Other than that, Microsoft’s focus on security related features like SDL (Security Development Lifecycle), coding, testing and design system shows that they are very much committed top level security for Windows 8.
Security enhancements in Windows 8
Some of the security enhancements in Windows 8 include ASLR, Memory Heap Randomization and support for UEFI 2.3.1.
Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR)
The main responsibility of ASLR is to provide protection for the core of the operating system from Windows 8 problems like kernel mode NULL dereferences vulnerability which is the key for any hackers to secure unauthorized privileges over your PC. In nutshell, your Windows 8 PC will be secured from such unauthorized intrusions.
Memory Heap Randomization
This particular tweak is for ensuring protection to your Windows 8 PC from malicious attack of malware rogues for overrunning those spaces meant for the malicious purposes of an application. Even if your PC is intruded, which is very unlikely to happen, your application will stay protected.
Another important enhancement in Windows 8 regarding security is the support for UEFI 2.3.1 which will prevent the early booting of malwares. By doing so, they won’t be able to do any harm to your computer.
That’s all with the information regarding the security enhancements in Windows. Hope these improvements will stop Windows 8 problems from occurring.
How to Test Windows 8 Beta with Windows Home Sever
Microsoft now offers tips relating to the Windows 8 “customer preview” beta with the Windows Home Sever (WHS).
You can now connect the client beta with WHS. However, user still faces a few issues. Microsoft also wishes to remind users that making use of the Windows 8 beta with WHS is not highly recommended or fully supported. It is used only for testing for the time being.
Windows 8 Problems involving Interpretability
It is well known that WHS 2011 has four interpretability issues relating to Windows 8 beta or at least Microsoft opines so. One of the major concerns is to have .NET framework 3.5 enabled on Windows 8. This is required in order to avoid an “unexpected error.” The power setting for client backups does not always work right. Sometimes, it is observed that thumbnails in the picture folder does not display properly when used with remote access. There are also credential issues with share folders which have joined a home group.
It is required of Windows 8 beta testers to download a connector. WHS 2011 users are also advised to download Windows 8 client connector software before
Windows 8 Advanced Security
proceeding to add .NET Framework 3.5. this connector is widely available by means of the Microsoft Connect WHS portal.
Windows 8 Problems involving Windows 8 Beta
WHs 2007 has two problems while they are in the process of linking up with the Windows 8 beta. An example to illustrate this is as follows. A Windows Live ID credential is not recognized by Windows Home Server.” But, Microsoft tackles such Windows 8 problems by coming up with a set of instructions in order to add an account to the Windows 8 clients by means of the “credential manager.” Another common issue that arises is related to the OEM client software which does not install. Microsoft is of the opinion that installing particular .MSI files before the connector in order to address such Windows 8 problems.
Microsoft seems to be planning for Windows 8 and WHS so as to work together in the near future, or whenever Windows 8 is released.
A Final Word
There is speculation that Windows 8, owing to its storage improvements is able to serve as a replacement for WHS altogether. Such speculation centers on a storage virtualization technology in Windows 8 which is commonly referred to as “storage spaces.” Windows 8 storage spaces permit mixed disk media to be used.
I hope you are now clear as to how you can test Windows 8 beta with Windows Home Server.
