Together with AMD, Intel and Qualcomm, Microsoft has presented a “shared vision for the future of Windows PCs” in the form of the Pluton processor, in which security is built into the core itself, right into the CPU.
Pluton will be used to protect personal data on Windows computers. The chip eliminates the possibility of a hacker attack by keeping the user’s personal data – for example, encryption keys – in a segment separate from the system.“None of this information can be removed from Pluton, even if an attacker installs malware or gains full physical control over the computer”, — explained in the description of the processor.
Microsoft management intends in the near future to enter into an agreement with AMD, Intel and other major processor developers to install a new chip in their microcircuits before production. It will prevent Internet users from launching pirated content and playing unlicensed games.
“Our vision for the future of Windows PCs is security at the core, built into the CPU for a more integrated approach, where hardware and software are tightly integrated to eliminate entire classes of attack vectors”, – reported in Microsoft blog.
The chip was designed as a replacement for the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which protects hardware components and cryptographic keys, and is responsible for the Windows Hello feature for unlocking a computer with a face or fingerprint. However, TPM is not perfect: by gaining physical access to a device, hackers can intercept data in the communication channel between this module and the central processor.
By combining TPM with a processor, Pluton does not allow such an attack.
“In addition to controlling the hardware and software, the new chip verifies the integrity of the system and simplifies the process of updating firmware using the cloud (via Windows Update)”, – says the Microsoft blog.
Microsoft hopes that their innovation will interest many users, as it’s aim is addressing hacking. In addition, with the help of the chip, it will be possible to get rid of some problems with critical vulnerabilities. The release date of this product on the markets has not yet been specified.
Let me remind you that Microsoft reports that 99.9% of compromised accounts did not use multifactor authentication and that Microsoft recently gained control over six domains of “Coronavirus” scammers.