Microsoft Announces Pluton Security Processor for Windows PCs

Microsoft has unveiled Pluton, a security processor designed to protect credentials, user identities, encryption keys and personal data on Windows PCs, according to a prepared statement.

Pluton uses root-of-trust technology to eliminate the risk that cybercriminals can target a Windows PC's Trusted Platform Module (TPM), a hardware component that stores keys and measurements that verify system integrity.

Pluton enables Microsoft to build security directly into the CPU of Windows PCs, the company said. It features an architecture that emulates a TPM that works with a Windows PC's existing TPM specifications and APIs, so users can leverage security for Windows features that rely on TPMs like BitLocker and System Guard.

In addition, Pluton safeguards sensitive information stored on Windows PCs against cyberattacks, Microsoft indicated. Pluton ensures that this information cannot be removed from the processor, even if cybercriminals install malware or gain full physical possession of a PC.

Pluton dates back to 2013, as the processor's design was introduced as part of the integrated hardware and operating system security capabilities in the Xbox One console. It was developed in conjunction with AMD, Intel and Qualcomm Technologies.

Microsoft Launches Public Preview of Linux EDR Capabilities for Defender for Endpoint

Along with its Pluton announcement, Microsoft this week released a public preview of endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities in Defender for Endpoint on Linux servers.

The EDR capabilities work with Defender for Endpoint's antivirus capabilities and reporting via the Microsoft Defender Security Center to help users detect cyber threats and remediate attacks on Linux servers, Microsoft said. Furthermore, security teams can leverage Defender for Endpoint's EDR capabilities to understand cyber threats and find ways to improve CPU utilization in compilation procedures and large software deployments.