Agent Workspaces Archives

Winsage

December 4, 2025

I get why some people are suddenly freaking out about AI agents in Windows 11 – I’m worried, too, but let’s not panic just yet

Windows 11 has updated its documentation regarding AI agents, specifically the 'Experimental Agentic Features' introduced in October 2025. The recent update coincided with the rollout of experimental features in preview version 26220.7262, including the Copilot Actions agent, which helps users manage files. Concerns have been raised about potential attack vectors related to these AI systems, but Microsoft claims to have built defenses against such threats. The AI agents operate within a separate 'agent workspace,' isolating them from the user's primary account to limit file access and reduce exploitation risks. Despite these measures, there are lingering uncertainties about the reliability and security of the AI agents, especially in light of past challenges with similar features.

Winsage

November 30, 2025

Microsoft Issues Warning To Windows 11 Users – This AI Feature Can Install Viruses

Microsoft is transitioning to Windows 11 with the introduction of an "agentic OS," featuring experimental components called Agent Workspace, currently available to select Windows Insiders. These agentic features will be disabled by default due to potential security risks, including cross-prompt injection (XPIA) that could allow unauthorized access to user files. When activated, agent accounts can access the user profile directory, which raises concerns about data exfiltration and malware installation. The AI applications, including Copilot, will have visibility into the entire display, prompting users to consider privacy implications. Agent workspaces are designed to provide scoped authorization and runtime isolation, allowing users to manage access to files while using their devices. However, initial user reactions have been mixed, with ongoing concerns about security and functionality.

Winsage

November 18, 2025

Microsoft’s vision of “AI-native” Windows is becoming real, update introduces agents that pilfer through your files — Latest Windows 11 Insider build includes experimental AI agents toggle that can perform tasks for you in the background

A senior Microsoft executive announced the evolution of Windows into an agentic operating system with AI features, which has been met with skepticism on social media. The Windows Insider Blog introduced AI agents in Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7262, featuring an "Experimental agentic features" toggle that allows the creation of an "Agent Workspace," an isolated desktop environment. Currently, Agent Workspaces are non-functional and serve only as a toggle option. The AI agents are designed to handle routine tasks locally on users' machines, inspired by applications like ChatGPT and Copilot Actions. The Agent Workspace operates separately from standard directories, ensuring actions are logged for security. AI agents are disabled by default, requiring administrator privileges to enable, and can be granted read/write access to specific folders based on user permissions. The introduction of Agent Workspaces creates a new user account for the AI agent, maintaining administrative control and distinct permissions. However, the functionality is limited, leading to user frustration over unaddressed issues in the operating system.