Microsoft is taking significant strides to bolster the security framework of Windows, aiming to equip organizations with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of an AI-driven future. These enhancements are part of the broader Secure Future Initiative, which underscores the importance of trust, privacy, and robust enterprise controls.
One of the standout features is the introduction of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) APIs. These APIs are designed with encryption algorithms that can withstand potential quantum attacks, which threaten to compromise traditional cryptographic methods. By adopting these APIs, organizations can begin transitioning to quantum-safe encryption, ensuring their data remains protected in the long run.
In a notable upgrade, Microsoft is enhancing BitLocker with hardware-accelerated support, aimed at improving both the speed and security of disk encryption. This feature, set to roll out on new Windows 11 devices in Spring 2026, utilizes silicon-level key protection. Microsoft elaborated, “Hardware-accelerated BitLocker brings faster and more secure disk encryption to Windows by leveraging modern SoC and CPUs. Cryptographic operations are now offloaded from the main processor to dedicated hardware, boosting performance and reducing system overhead.” This advancement minimizes exposure to vulnerabilities, thereby elevating data protection standards.
Passkey manager integration with Windows Hello
In a move to enhance user convenience and security, Microsoft has announced the general availability of passkey manager integration with Windows Hello. This feature allows users to select their preferred passkey manager, which includes options like Microsoft Password Manager in Edge, 1Password, and Bitwarden, among others. To further mitigate risks from malicious software, Windows 11 employs App Control for Business, ensuring that only trusted applications and drivers are permitted to operate on user devices. Additionally, Microsoft Intune’s Managed Installer streamlines the process for IT teams to approve business applications while blocking potentially harmful programs, thus reinforcing defenses against malware and phishing threats.
Moreover, Microsoft is integrating Sysmon functionality directly into Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025. This feature provides customizable event logging for advanced threat detection, simplifying deployment and maintenance while offering security teams enhanced visibility into system activities.
Microsoft improves Antivirus and driver resilience across Windows
Continuing its commitment to security, Microsoft is also implementing two major upgrades to network security: Zero Trust DNS and Wi-Fi 7 for Enterprise. Zero Trust DNS enforces encrypted name resolution through approved servers, effectively blocking unauthorized traffic. Meanwhile, support for Wi-Fi 7 for Enterprise promises next-generation speed and reliability, with mandatory WPA3-Enterprise authentication ensuring secure and seamless connectivity.
In line with the Windows Resiliency Initiative (WRI), Microsoft is enhancing the reliability of Windows through stricter driver standards and an improved antivirus architecture. The latest updates include a shift in antivirus enforcement from kernel to user mode, which aims to prevent system crashes. Additionally, Microsoft is raising certification requirements for driver signing and expanding in-box drivers and APIs to minimize the reliance on custom kernel code.
These ongoing improvements are designed to significantly reduce kernel-level operations across various driver classes. Furthermore, Microsoft is introducing new safeguards—such as driver isolation, compiler constraints, and DMA remapping—to contain faults and enhance overall system stability.
