Windows 7 / Security and Privacy

Security Features Previously Introduced in Windows Vista

This section describes the most visible and tangible Windows Vista security improvements that have not been substantially changed in Windows 7, which are listed in Table below. Each of these improvements is also included in Windows 7. Architectural and internal improvements- as well as improvements that require additional applications or infrastructure-are described later in this tutorial. Security improvements new to Windows 7 and Windows Vista features that are significantly improved in Windows 7 also are discussed later in this tutorial.

Security Improvements Previously Introduced In Windows Vista
ImprovementDescription
Windows DefenderAttempts to detect and block unwanted software.
Windows FirewallFilters incoming and outgoing network traffic. New improvements provide greater flexibility and manageability.
Encrypting File SystemEncrypts files and folders other than system files. Improvements provide greater flexibility and manageability.
Credential Manager enhancementsEnable users to perform common credential management security tasks, such as resetting PINs.

The sections that follow describe these features in more detail. For detailed recommendations on how to configure Windows Vista security settings, refer to the Windows Vista Security Guide, available at http://www.microsoft.com. For an interesting description of how Windows Vista security changes have led to real-world improvements, read "Windows Vista Security One Year Later" at http://blogs.msdn.com/windowsvistasecurity/archive/2008/01/23/windows-vista-security-one-year-later.aspx.

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In this tutorial:

  1. Windows 7 Security
  2. Addressing Specific Security Concerns
  3. Help Desk Calls Related to Malware
  4. Protecting Against Bundling and Social Engineering
  5. Protecting Against Browser Exploit Malware Installations
  6. Protecting Against Network Worms
  7. Data Theft
  8. Security Features Previously Introduced in Windows Vista
  9. Windows Defender
  10. Windows Firewall
  11. Encrypting File System
  12. Credential Manager Enhancements
  13. New Security Features of Windows 7