secure enclave Archives

Winsage

December 20, 2024

Why Windows 11 requires a TPM – and how to get around it

Microsoft introduced a hardware compatibility requirement for Windows 11 in 2021, mandating the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 standard. A TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor designed to manage security-related tasks and encryption keys, enhancing system security by encrypting data, generating random numbers, and validating digital signatures. The TPM architecture is defined by the ISO/IEC 11889 standard. TPM can be integrated as a chip on a motherboard or within firmware, with major companies like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm adopting this technology. TPM 2.0 is essential for Windows security features, working with Secure Boot to ensure only trusted code is executed at startup and facilitating biometric authentication through Windows Hello. It also secures BitLocker keys, making unauthorized data access difficult. Most PCs manufactured from 2016 onwards include TPM 2.0 by default, while older systems may have limited TPM capabilities or adhere to the unsupported TPM 1.2 standard. Users can check their TPM status using the System Information tool. TPM functionality is not exclusive to Windows; it is also utilized in Linux PCs and IoT devices, while Apple devices use a different architecture called Secure Enclave. Windows 10 and 11 automatically initialize the TPM during installation, and users can upgrade to Windows 11 with any version of TPM through a registry modification.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

No support or updates for Windows 11 on machines not meeting minimum hardware requirements, says Microsoft

Microsoft has hinted at potential compatibility issues with Windows 11, particularly regarding how new features may interact with systems lacking a Trusted Platform Module (TPM). The necessity of a TPM, especially version 2.0, is a debated aspect of Windows 11's minimum requirements. A TPM serves as a secure enclave for safeguarding sensitive data and is essential for functions like Secure Boot and BitLocker security. Future software systems are expected to increasingly rely on TPM as a foundational element of trust.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Microsoft says having a TPM is “non-negotiable” for Windows 11

Microsoft requires TPM 2.0 support as a non-negotiable prerequisite for upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 to enhance security. TPM 2.0 is a specialized processor that provides hardware-based security functions, such as storing sensitive information securely. As of October 2023, over 61% of Windows systems globally still run Windows 10, while less than 35% have upgraded to Windows 11 since its launch in October 2021. Microsoft will offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for home users to postpone their upgrade to Windows 11 for an additional year, with enrollment opening closer to the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Specialized versions of Windows, like LTSB and LTSC, will continue to receive updates beyond this date. Windows 11 24H2 has begun rolling out to eligible devices running Windows 11, versions 22H2 and 23H2.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 15’s Private Space is like a secret vault for your sensitive apps

Android 15 introduces the Private Space feature, allowing users to create a secure environment for sensitive applications and data. This feature acts as a digital vault, enabling the isolation of critical apps like health trackers and banking apps, protected by an additional layer of authentication such as a PIN code. Users can set up Private Space through the “Security & Privacy” section in device settings, requiring authentication to ensure only the owner can create this secure space. Once established, Private Space is identifiable in the app drawer with a “Private” label and a lock icon.

Winsage

September 26, 2024

Why Windows 11 requires a TPM – and how to get around that

Microsoft introduced a hardware compatibility test for Windows 11 in 2021, requiring a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) that meets the TPM 2.0 standard. A TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor designed for security tasks and managing encryption keys, enhancing system security by reducing unauthorized access risks. The TPM architecture is defined by the ISO/IEC 11889 standard. TPMs can be integrated as discrete chips, embedded in firmware, or included in CPUs. PCs designed in 2016 or later are likely to have TPM 2.0, as Microsoft mandated its inclusion that year. Older PCs may have TPMs, but those from 2013 or earlier typically use the unsupported TPM 1.2 standard. Some TPMs may be disabled in BIOS settings. The TPM aids in secure boot processes, biometric authentication, and stores BitLocker keys for encryption. Both Windows 10 and 11 automatically initialize the TPM during installation. Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 can be done with a registry modification if a TPM is present; otherwise, unofficial methods may be needed.

Winsage

September 9, 2024

What is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?

Microsoft launched Windows 11 in 2021, requiring a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) that adheres to the TPM 2.0 standard for enhanced security. A TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor that manages security tasks and encryption keys, reducing unauthorized access risks. The TPM architecture is defined by the ISO/IEC 11889 standard, focusing on cryptographic operations with integrity protection, isolation, and confidentiality. TPMs can be integrated as discrete chips, embedded in firmware, or incorporated into CPUs. Most PCs designed in 2016 or later have TPM 2.0 enabled by default. Intel and AMD have integrated TPM features into their CPUs since then, while older PCs may have TPMs adhering to the older TPM 1.2 standard, which is not supported by Windows 11. Some TPMs may be disabled in BIOS or firmware settings. The TPM processes cryptographic operations and stores private keys, enabling features like Secure Boot, which prevents unauthorized modifications to the operating system, and supports biometric authentication through Windows Hello. It also safeguards BitLocker keys for disk encryption. Both Windows 10 and 11 automatically initialize the TPM during installation. TPM functionality is available on Linux PCs and IoT devices, while Apple devices use a Secure Enclave for similar functions. Users can check their TPM status in Device Manager under Security Devices. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 requires a minor registry adjustment if a TPM is present. If a TPM is absent, a utility called Rufus can bypass hardware checks for Windows 11 installation.

Winsage

July 11, 2024

Is Windows Recall bad for businesses?

Recall is a feature in the CoPilot+ ecosystem that allows an AI assistant to carry out complex search tasks by capturing screenshots of the user's device. It combs through computer usage, classifying patterns in behavior, identifying programs used, and creating a search index. This feature raises privacy concerns as it could potentially lead to the sharing of protected information without the user's knowledge. Microsoft has provided the ability to temporarily or permanently stop Recall from operating on a computer, but it is unclear how tightly integrated this feature will be in future updates. Users concerned about privacy can opt for free and open-source software alternatives or privacy-focused service providers like Proton VPN.

Winsage

June 16, 2024

Apple is handling AI so much better than Microsoft I may ditch Windows for macOS Sequoia

Apple is making privacy a primary selling point of its AI offerings, while Microsoft does not prioritize user privacy in its AI efforts. Apple's new operating systems respect user privacy by processing requests on-device and using Privacy Cloud Compute servers. Microsoft's AI tools, like Copilot, require a subscription for data privacy protection, and Microsoft has been criticized for selling user data to advertisers. Apple's approach to integrating AI into its products is seen as the best among major tech companies, with a focus on user privacy. Microsoft's rushed AI integration has led to privacy concerns, such as the Recall feature that was unveiled without adequate safeguards.

AppWizard

May 18, 2024

Your Android phone is getting its best free upgrade in years very soon

- Google's annual I/O conference unveiled Android 15 updates, which will mainly be available on recent and premium smartphones. - Android 15 introduces enhancements such as Private Space for sensitive applications, malicious app blocking for security, Low Light Boost for photography, and satellite connectivity for SMS communication. - Android 15 also includes features like digitizing text-based passes, app archiving to the cloud, and partial screen recording for privacy.

AppWizard

May 17, 2024

Android 15 Lets You Hide Your Most Sensitive Apps in a Digital Safe

Google is introducing a security feature called 'private space' in Android 15, allowing users to hide specific apps containing personal and financial information.