Windows 11’s first feature update, 22H2 introduces several new features. We find for example a file explorer supported by tabs, support for Android applications via the Amazon Appstore or the Smart App Control.
This technology is supposed to strengthen the security of Windows 11. Its purpose is to prevent malicious applications from running on the PC to protect data. This is not an “antivirus” function but a protection tool, a kind of protective shield offered with Windows 11 22H2 and working with Microsoft Defender. In fact, Microsoft recommends running Smart App Control alongside Microsoft Defender.+
The giant explains
Smart App Control adds significant protection once morest new threats and emerging risks by blocking malicious or untrusted apps. The Smart App Control also helps block potentially unwanted apps, which are apps that can slow down your device, show unexpected ads, offer extra software you didn’t want, or do other things you don’t expect. The Smart App Control works with your other security software, such as Microsoft Defender or non-Microsoft antivirus tools, for added protection.
The Smart App Control works quite simply. Once activated, monitoring is set up. As soon as an application is executed, an automatic check starts. It goes through a connection to Microsoft servers and a signature verification is made. The system then tells the Smart App Control whether the app is considered safe or not. If everything is operational, Windows is allowed to run it normally. If a doubt arises the operation is blocked.
Microsoft add
If the security service is unable to make a reliable prediction regarding the app, the Smart App Control checks if the app has a valid signature. If the app has a valid signature, the Smart App Control lets it run. If the app is unsigned or the signature is invalid, Smart App Control considers it untrusted and blocks it for your protection.
This advancement is now offered with Windows 11 22H2. On the other hand, it is activated only on new installations. Redmond offers different states (Active, Deactivated and Evaluation). One of them is the evaluation mode. The Smart App Control tries to learn how the device is being used to try to protect it without becoming too intrusive. Most of the analysis is done in the background.
Currently, the Smart App Control does not support exclusions. Simply put, if an app is blocked, there’s no way to let it run until you completely disable it.
