Microsoft details Windows 7 corporate security
Microsoft has released more details about the security measures it is adding in Windows 7. The focus is on finding a balance between security and ease of use for businesses which have workers computing on the move.
Among the new or enhanced features:
Users can now use more than one set of firewall rules at once. The firm gives the example of a worker on the road who gets their Internet connection through a public network such as a wireless hotspot, but then needs to remotely connect to their corporate network. They will now be able to run different firewall set-ups for the two connections. An added benefit of this change is that firms can now set-up a standard firewall policy for all employees on the corporate network, regardless of where they are connecting from.
A DirectAccess feature automatically sets up a two way link between your computer and your corporate network whenever you are online. This also means your company can access your machine the moment you get online, allowing it to run any security checks or apply updates without having to wait for you to return to the office.
BranchCache uses cacheing to minimize the problem of workers visiting a branch office but being slowed by limited bandwidth. The goal is that accessing a corporate network from a branch office should feel as quick as if you were in the main office itself.
BitLocker To Go takes the existing hard disk encryption technology from Vista and applies it to removable media such as USB drives.
AppLocker gives system administrators more remote security control over applications downloaded or otherwise installed by individual users.
Except for the firewalls change, these features are all only available in the Enterprise and Ultimate editions of Vista, which are aimed at corporate users.
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