The End Of Windows Applications?

Microsoft are starting to move users away from the old style API driven Windows programs and towards the store-based UWP apps like the ones you use on your smartphone or tablet.

Why the change?

Mainly it’s a security move, the UWP (Universal Windows Platform) apps run in a ‘secure sandbox’ space, each has its own space and is limited in how much it can access other apps or the core Windows system. This is just how apps on your smartphone or tablet work. The ‘old’ style programs that you are familiar with have greater access to the Windows system, this is what many viruses exploit to take control of your computer.

So, that’s good then?

Well mostly. The problem with apps running in a sandboxed environment is that they are even more reliant on the system to supply the information and computer resources they need to work. Typically they are much lighter on features because of these restrictions.

What will end users see?

To start with, probably in the upcoming Creators Update (due in April) there will be an option in the settings to restrict the installation of programs not bought via the App Store. The options are to allow any app to be installed, allow any app but prefer apps from the Store, or allow only Store apps.

This will be useful for network admins managing Windows systems, they will be able to configure this setting centrally and prevent any non-store apps getting installed.

If you need help planning and deploying network policy files, or want help making your home computers and phones more secure, please do get in touch with us.

Information and screenshots discovered by Vitor Mikaelson on this tweet

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