Discover the benefits of enhanced browsing security as we delve into the steps required to activate Microsoft Defender Application Guard on the Microsoft Edge browser. Learn how to safeguard your online activity from potential threats with this effective feature.
Activating Microsoft Defender Application Guard on Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge, with its Chromium foundation, provides a unique security feature called Microsoft Defender Application Guard. This feature creates an isolated browsing session apart from your system, containing potential threats and providing a secure environment for web navigation. Although this robust security measure is not commonly used in everyday browsing, enabling it brings peace of mind when traversing the vast digital landscape.
Note that Microsoft Defender Application Guard is exclusive to certain Windows editions—specifically Windows 10 Professional, Enterprise, and Education, running on at least build 16188 or newer. Furthermore, a system with a minimum of 8GB of RAM is advisable, alongside a CPU capable of Second Level Address Translation (SLAT). These specs are standard in modern systems compatible with updated Windows operating systems.
Enabling Defender Application Guard is straightforward. Begin by accessing ‘Turn Windows features on or off’ in the Windows Control Panel or by pressing the Windows key + S and typing out the phrase. Locate ‘Windows Defender Application Guard’ on the list and check the box next to it. Allow Windows to complete the installation process, and then restart your computer to finalize the changes.
Once activated, Microsoft Edge can run under the protection of Application Guard. To start a session, click the ‘New Application Guard window’ from the settings menu in the browser. This session is visibly marked with a red tab and top border, signaling enhanced security. Exiting the protected session is as simple as closing the browser, following which you can resume browsing in Edge or switch to an alternate browser.
If you encounter the option being grayed out, ensure that your system meets the following requirements:
- Compatible with Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise (version 1709+ for Pro, 1803+ for Enterprise).
- System architecture is 64-bit.
- CPU virtualization (Hyper-V) is activated in the BIOS settings.
- Defender Application Guard is not enabled by default and needs manual activation.
- At least 8GB of RAM, 5GB of free storage space, with an SSD being the preferred storage medium.
Conclusion
The integration of Microsoft Defender Application Guard into the Edge browser marks a significant step forward in cybersecurity. While setting it up requires some technical know-how, the end result is a secure browsing experience that protects against advanced cyber threats, such as ransomware. Use this feature judiciously for your most security-sensitive web activities and enjoy greater peace of mind as you navigate the web.
FAQ
Q: What are the prerequisites for using Microsoft Defender Application Guard with Edge?
A: The prerequisites include running on Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise (version 1709+ for Pro, 1803+ for Enterprise), having a 64-bit system, an enabled CPU virtualization in BIOS, and meeting the system requirements of at least 8GB RAM and 5GB free storage space.
Q: How do I know if I am browsing in a Defender Application Guard session in Edge?
A: The session is designated by a bright red tab and a red line across the top of the browser window, indicating an active Application Guard environment.
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