Public Key Infrastructure: Microsoft

Microsoft understands the importance of your Public Key Infrastructure, that’s why they have included PKI technologies in Windows Server 2003 and many other applications.  In fact, many of Microsoft’s new programs have an Encrypted File System built right into the program.  Microsoft offers their Encrypted File System to make it easy for individuals and companies to utilize a Public Key Infrastructure easily and simply.

The Encrypted File System works with Windows 2000, 2003, XP, and Vista (newly redesigned Encrypted File System) to provide comprehensive security for many of Microsoft’s programs. 

Microsoft’s Encrypted File System is based on the Public Key Cryptography and involves giving an individual two keys.  The first key is a public key and the other is a private key.  The public key is readily seen by anyone searching for it in a registry or directory; the private key is safely guarded. 

Microsoft has taken precautions to ensure that all users can have the security and protection that they need when dealing with customer’s sensitive information and data.  Their Encrypted File System allows users to have simple access to Public Key technologies when on the Internet, sending Emails, or transferring or dealing with private information. 

With Microsoft Visa, you will discover that there is a whole new set of Public Key tools built into the system.  First, Vista offers Code Integrity.  Code Integrity protects Windows Vista by ensuring that the base code of the system has not been changed or compromised by malicious code, typically found in viruses and Trojans.  When Windows Vista runs or starts up, Code Integrity automatically sets out to work and ensure that the base code is intact.  It also verifies that the cryptographic functions have not been tampered with so that you can ensure your digital security is pure. 

In addition to Code Integrity, User Account Control also establishes and secures the identity of the computer user.  User Account Control is a suite of different services that verify the security of the system.  User Account Control includes the Application Information Service, Installer Detection, Data Visualization, and Consent Prompt.  Consent Creation ensures that you must have full administrator access to work with certain privileges and programs. 

With the newly designed Encryption File System on Microsoft’s Vista, there is support for those who are storing their private keys and smart cards on their computers.  Greater security methods are implemented to ensure that these sensitive data materials are not compromised.  Vista also provides tools for recovery or backup of your private key and smart card to make it easier to retrieve these items incase of data loss. 

You’ll also discover the new BitLocker component that is located in the control panel (in the security tab) that allows you to control the amount of security in the system.  In addition, they have redesigned their cryptographic platform with Crypto NextGen or CNG for short.  The new changes mean that users will have more control over the chosen cryptographic algorithms and can customize their level of security. 

As security needs continue to increase, Microsoft has taken the steps necessary to ensure that all Vista users can arm themselves with the tools necessary to protect their data.