Prior to Windows Server 2012, implementing BitLocker on a server meant using either Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip-only mode, which is the weakest protector in the many offered, or required that a server administrator be present for each boot with a PIN, password, or USB key. Taken together, UEFI and Secure Boot significantly reduce the risk of malicious code, such as rootkits and boot viruses, from taking control of the operating system.ĭata center-ready BitLocker drive encryption BitLocker is finally usable on server systems. Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 go further and pick up the trustworthy and verified boot process, extending it to the entire Windows OS boot code with a feature known as Secure Boot. Microsoft is using the security-hardened 2.3.1 version, which prevents boot code updates without appropriate digital certificates and signatures. True UEFI and Secure Boot Like Windows 8, Windows Server 2012 has replaced the traditional ROM-BIOS with the new and improved industry boot standard known as UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface).

Here's a quick walkthrough of the significant new security features found in Windows Server 2012. I would add that security improvements alone may justify the purchase for many enterprises. Windows Server 2012 really does change the game, and that's across all roles: file sharing, identity, storage, virtual desktop infrastructure, and certainly server virtualization and cloud.' As InfoWorld's Oliver Rist said in June: 'When Microsoft calls this a 'major' release, the company isn't kidding. Those considering an upgrade to Windows Server 2012 should have no such hesitation. With the shift to the new Metro user interface, a lot of people are wondering if Windows 8 is right for them.

Win server 12