Long standing users of Windows (Win 3.1 @ ’92 onwards here!) couldn’t help notice that last year’s Windows 10 release was unlike any Windows release ever used before. The feeling that it was a work in progress: glitchier, buggier, less polished than aprevious releases (other than the unspoken Vista disaster) The system wasn’t blue-screening all the time or anything like that, but the Start menu didn’t show all programs. Browsers crashed a little too frequently to be acceptable, even the Store app would crash.
So, the awaited Anniversary update is finally here, from today. The free update includes two security innovations for individual customers: Windows Hello for apps and websites; and Windows Defender.
Enterprises will get Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection, which detects, investigates and responds to advanced malicious attacks on networks; and Windows Information Protection, or WIP, previously known as “enterprise data protection.”
Microsoft “has done a very creditable and admirable job of paying attention to security — secure by design, secure by default, secure in implementation, and secure in storage,” remarked Laura DiDio, a research director at Strategy Analytics.
The Anniversary Update extends the Windows Hello biometric authentication feature in the browser using FIDO, and enables password-free access to apps such as Dropbox.
The Anniversary Update offers smartphone syncing using the Cortana apps on iOS, Android and Windows 10 Mobile.
Something for Everyone
Windows Ink, which lets users perform a number of tasks with a digital pen, is included in the update. Key apps have Ink-specific features.
With the update, the Cortana personal digital assistant appears above the lockscreen, so it can be used without having to unlock the device.
The Microsoft Edge browser includes more power-saving improvements; various Edge Extensions such as Pinterest’s “Pin It” button and AdBlock; and improved visual presentation of Web pages in high contrast mode. The update also streamlines completion of online forms.
Gamers will be able to stay connected with friends on Xbox Live and enjoy more games across their devices with the Anniversary Update. They’ll be able to use Cortana commands on Xbox One, and be able to select any supported language regardless of their location.
Finally, the Anniversary Update will simplify PC deployment, so SME’s and Schools can set up devices without requiring dedicated IT support. Small businesses and Schools with IT support can set up shared devices in bulk, rapidly using the updated Windows Imaging and Configuration Designer tool.
All in all – a welcomed update that promises to add security to the OS and make it a little more intuitive!
