Microsoft added new ways to secure the login process, particularly for touch-screen users:

: Windows Defender was upgraded from a simple antispyware tool to a full-blown antivirus equivalent to Microsoft Security Essentials, providing out-of-the-box protection.

However, Windows 8 and 8.1 reached their on January 10, 2023. This means they no longer receive security patches from Microsoft, making them highly vulnerable to modern exploits. 1. Core Security Features Introduced

Windows 8 was designed as a major security leap for Microsoft, introducing features like to prevent low-level malware and integrating Windows Defender as a full antivirus solution for the first time.

: Replaced the traditional BIOS with UEFI to verify that only trusted, digitally signed components load during startup, effectively blocking "bootkits".

Windows 8 brought several defensive layers that are still standard in modern Windows versions:

: A four-digit PIN provides a faster, device-specific alternative to typing a complex Microsoft account password. 3. Current Risks & Mitigation (2025-2026)