Windows 8 Release Date, Price and Security Concern: Symantec Doesn't See "Any Significant Improvements in Windows 8 Security"

Symantec, the largest security software company around, doesn't see "any significant improvements in Windows 8 security," noting that the new OS "doesn't move the needle much."

In an interview with Computer World Gary Egan, senior director of product management at Symantec stated "We need to see where that [malware] flows, what the problems are for our customers, before we do more [on Windows 8's 'Modern' app feature]."

"What we do will depend on the attack surfaces in Windows RT and Windows 8. Microsoft has laid down some very stringent guidelines on what's allowable [on Modern], which also ties our hands. So if there is more to do in the future, we may not be able to because it would infringe on those guidelines."

Microsoft has often been criticized for its heavily regulated systems, specifically Xbox Live. Although the company's strict policies allow for quality enforcement of the content on Microsoft platforms, it robs programmers and developers of much needed flexibility at times.

"It's partially true that Windows 8 is more secure," claimed Egan. "But underneath is a traditional Windows-Intel desktop, which is backward compatible with both the good code and the bad."

Egan believes that Symantec's security software trumps Microsoft's built in Windows defenders, arguing that products such as Norton Antivirus "add so much more value over and above" Defender.

If you are currently running the Windows 8 Release to Manufacture (RTM) version and browse the web with Internet Explorer 10, you are in danger of security risks. According to ZDNet, Adobe released a series of security updates for Flash Player last month that have yet to make their way to Windows 8 IE 10. "These updates address vulnerabilities that could cause a crash and potentially allow an attacker to take control of the affected system." ZDNet recommends disabling the built-in Flash Player.

As with any new operating system, there are security software hurdles to jump over, and new loopholes that will inevitably be discovered. If security is your top priority, it may be wise to wait for the initial early adopters to test the operating system, allowing the issues to sort themselves out over time.  

The OS, which will be officially launched on October 26, can be preordered at this site. Consumers who bought a Windows PC on June 2, 2012 or after are eligible for a $14.99 upgrade fee. Those who do not fall within those criteria wll still be offered a discount to purchase Windows 8 for $39. This promotion ends on Janurary 31, 2013.