64-bit versions of Windows are declared faster, due to their capacity to utilize additional memory. It is to enlighten that the efficacy of this version is not just limited to this feature. The reason, most of the new machines incorporate a 64-bit Windows, is its swiftness as well as being more secure than 32-bit. A 64-bit Window has certain additional features, along with those related to security. This does not profess a 64-bit operating system to be inaccessible for viruses and malwares, but makes it more difficult for these threats to infiltrate your PC. With the use of assured and enhanced tools in 64-bit, you can build stronger shields around your valuable data.
Prior to proceeding this piece for the solution, let be advised to first Scan and Fix your system’s concealed disorders which most probably is eliciting the inconsistencies:
- Step 1 : Download Systimizer – PC Cleaner & Internet Booster (Works on Windows 10, 8, 7 & XP)
- Step 2 : Click “Scan” to find system issues
- Step 3 : Click “Fix” to repair all anomalies
These tools, along with their functions and managing tips are deliberated below.
Kernel Patch Protection
Kernel Patch Protection (KPP), also known as PatchGuard is a valued feature of 64-bit Windows. The basic concern of this tool is to prevent kernel to be patched by other applications. The kernel is patched by modifying the instructions stored in it, although, it is not recommended by Microsoft Corporation itself. Such modifications are precisely permitted in 32-bit operating systems making it more unsecure and vulnerable to the threats. Although, KPP is not a perfect defense, it has the elevated ability to preserve kernel against insecure mending, proving Windows x64 a better armor against the malwares. KPP is also criticized for being unsupportive to certain antivirus applications, as these applications operate by patching the kernel. However, many reputable virus protection applications can be identified and acquired that are compatible to a 64-bit operating system.
Driver Signing
This is a feature integrated by Windows x64, challenging the authenticity of the drivers being installed. It mandates the acceptance and installation of drivers with signatures. Malware authors usually try to penetrate by infecting the drivers, both kernel-mode device drivers and user-mode drivers. These infected drivers cannot come with a genuine signature, until assigned with the one stolen from a legitimate source. Even then, the infected driver would face complications in running. It is almost impossible to bypass this behavior of a 64-bit operating system. A 32-bit OS also has the ability to require signed drivers, but unavailability of such drivers supporting 32-bit make it almost inoperable. It is almost impossible to bypass this behavior of a 64-bit operating system.
Address Space Layout Randomization
Many viruses and malwares have pre-defined endpoints with the identified functions and processes to target. In a 32-bit operating system, most of the paths and locations are generally known and are easy to be under attack. Address Space Layout Randomization or ASLR is a technology was first time introduced in Windows Vista 64-bit, by Microsoft Corporation. This security feature is aimed to randomize a program’s data location on the drive, making it hard to predict. These locations are almost impossible to track, as it does not have a defined pattern and allocates the destinations on pure random basis, reducing the probability for the malware author of being accurate. A single wrong attempt by the worm may crash the program, not giving another chance to try.
Data Execution Protection
Data Execution Protection, denoted by DEP is a feature or tool mainly used for the safety purpose. Each 64-bit operating system is DEP enabled and marks certain areas of memory as NX bit. NX bit represents Non-executable approach, which is only assigned to the memory zones holding some data. An intruder could manage to write code in an application’s memory area, in 64-bit Windows, similarly to that in 32-bit Windows. However, the difference between the two is that the written codes will be executed in 32-bit OS, but not in 64-bit OS. Since, this specific area is under the protection of DEP and cannot be executed in any way.
WOW64
A 64-bit Windows can only be threatened from the 32-bit applications. For this purpose, it enforces a compatibility layer called WOW64. This layer filters and stops 32-bit programs to run in kernel mode. Following-on, the 64-bit operating system remains protected from the suspicious data implanted in and old 32-bit application.
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