Microsoft strengthens Windows 365 Cloud PCs with virtualization-based protection

What just happened? Cloud-based Windows installs are generally more secure than local setups, especially against physical and network attacks targeting endpoint devices. Now, Microsoft is raising the bar further by enhancing security features specifically for Windows 365 Cloud PCs.

Microsoft recently announced two security-focused changes to the Windows 365 Cloud PC platform. The subscription-based service will soon disable all user-level file redirections and enable several virtualization-based security features to strengthen data and code integrity. Both changes will be enabled by default, though specific admin settings could complicate implementation.

Redmond said "select redirections," including clipboard, drive, USB, and printer redirections, will be disabled by default on newly provisioned or reprovisioned Cloud PCs. This change aims to reduce risks like data theft and malware, but it could negatively affect user experience. For example, Microsoft explained that accessing a file will disable the clipboard, making it impossible to copy files between the Cloud ...