![]() ![]() Windows checks the integrity of every component of the startup process before loading it. PCs with UEFI firmware and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) can be configured to load only trusted OS bootloaders. Windows supports four features to help prevent rootkits and bootkits from loading during the startup process: These kits pretend to be one of the trusted drivers that Windows uses to communicate with the PC hardware. These kits replace a portion of the OS kernel so the rootkit can start automatically when the OS loads. These kits replace the OS's bootloader (the small piece of software that starts the OS) so that the PC loads the bootkit before the OS. These kits overwrite the firmware of the PC's basic input/output system or other hardware so the rootkit can start before Windows. Often, rootkits are part of an entire suite of malware that can bypass local logins, record passwords and keystrokes, transfer private files, and capture cryptographic data.ĭifferent types of rootkits load during different phases of the startup process: Because rootkits have the same rights as the OS and start before it, they can completely hide themselves and other applications. They run in kernel mode, using the same privileges as the OS. Rootkits are a sophisticated and dangerous type of malware. Then, we'll show you how Windows can protect you. Even on PCs without UEFI, Windows provides even better startup security than previous versions of Windows.įirst, let's examine what rootkits are and how they work. In the unlikely event that malware does infect a PC, it can't remain hidden Trusted Boot can prove the system's integrity to your infrastructure in a way that malware can't disguise. When you run Windows 10 or Windows 11 on a PC or any PC that supports Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), Trusted Boot protects your PC from malware from the moment you power on your PC until your anti-malware starts. Modern malware, and bootkits specifically, are capable of starting before Windows, completely bypassing OS security, and remaining hidden. However, those security features protect you only after Windows starts. Those components are just some of the ways that Windows protects you from malware. Before an app can change system settings, the user would have to grant the app administrative privileges by using User Account Control. Windows Defender SmartScreen warns users before allowing them to run an untrustworthy app, even if it's recognized as malware. Windows Defender Antivirus uses cloud-powered real-time detection to identify and quarantine apps that are known to be malicious. Windows has multiple levels of protection for desktop apps and data, too. For instance, Microsoft Store apps are sandboxed and lack the privileges necessary to access user data or change system settings. Even if a malicious app does get through, Windows includes a series of security features that can mitigate the effect. This certification process examines several criteria, including security, and is an effective means of preventing malware from entering the Microsoft Store. Except for apps that businesses develop and use internally, all Microsoft Store apps must meet a series of requirements to be certified and included in the Microsoft Store. Or if you use another antivirus software program, check their virus protection options.Windows has many features to help protect you from malware, and it does an amazingly good job. If you're trying to remove malware, see Stay protected with Windows Security to find out how to run a scan. If you get an error message when you're uninstalling, try the Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter. If you can't find an app or program, try the tips in See all your apps in Windows 10 and Program is not listed in add/remove programs after installation. Then follow the directions on the screen. Press and hold (or right-click) on the program you want to remove and select Uninstall or Uninstall/ Change. In the search box on the taskbar, type Control Panel and select it from the results. ![]() Uninstall from the Control Panel (for programs) Select the app you want to remove, and then select Uninstall. Select Start, then select Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Press and hold (or right-click) on the app, then select Uninstall. Select Start and look for the app or program in the list shown. ![]()
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