Windows 11 22H2 (Sun Valley 2), which is expected to be launched in a few months, has been seeing Microsoft try various new features in the Insider test channel since the news, and even have been removed before because it is very good The old features that have been used and returned, and the interface has also been improved. One of the new features worth talking about is the “smart application control” that enhances security.
Windows 11 version 22H2 will get smart app controls to strengthen defenses against malware
In Windows 11 Insider version 22567, a new security tool called Smart App Control was added to Windows’ built-in settings, and its main purpose is to “focus protection” against malicious or untrusted applications. To keep your device safe, Smart App Control also blocks potentially unwanted apps.
“Potentially unnecessary apps” include apps that may slow down your computer, display ads in random apps, change your search engine in your browser, install extra software you don’t want, etc., among other issues It can also be solved through the smart application control function of Windows 11. While the notions of “untrusted” or “unwanted” are subjective, Microsoft says it has developed its own unique solution that automatically detects and flags any suspicious apps.
Starting with Windows 11 version 22H2, Smart App Control will scan apps to see if they have a developer seal and if the seal is valid. All developers and developers who play by the rules follow standard security practices and sign apps with a digital signature to verify their identity. Smart App Control checks this signature certification and allows it to run on Windows 11 if tests show that the signature is valid and the app does not appear to be malicious.
If the detected signature is invalid, Smart App Control will connect with Microsoft Defender, and Microsoft Defender will scan again to confirm the trustworthiness of the application. If Microsoft Defender confirms that the application is known and safe, Smart App Control will resolve the open its operational limits. Otherwise, Smart App Control will mark it as untrusted and prevent it from working on the device.
Microsoft is currently testing Smart App Control with a small number of Insiders. By default, the feature starts in “Evaluation Mode,” which attempts to determine whether an app installed on your device makes you a test candidate for Smart App Control, and if the evaluation passes, Microsoft will automatically enable it. If you’ve joined Insider and want to try this feature, you can turn Smart App Control on or off from Settings, but evaluation mode is only one shot and requires a fresh install of Windows 11.