How Microsoft Can Lock Linux Off Windows 8 PCs (bios, install, work)

[plwhit]

Microsoft is trying to lock up the PC yet again...

"Windows 8 PCs will use the next-generation booting specification known as Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). In fact, Windows 8 logo devices will be required to use the secure boot portion of the new spec.

How Microsoft Can Lock Linux Off Windows 8 PCs - Slashdot

[EscapeCalifornia]

Black hat hackers will find a way around this to install malware.

White hat hackers will find a way around this to install Linux.

It'll amount to nothing.

[NJBest]

This is an issue with UEFI. Not Microsoft.

[harhar]

Originally Posted by NJBest

This is an issue with UEFI. Not Microsoft.

Exactly. MS is pushing for this tech but you'd still be able (like you are now) to install windows on any kind of "regular" boot device.

Windows 8 ditches '80s BIOS boot for streamline UEFI -- Engadget

I like the UEFI streamlined boot and it's much like Apple's, however the irony will be that if and when UEFI becomes mainstream, it will become vulnerable to just as many viruses because of it's prevalence.

[NHDave]

Another read for the uninformed

Protecting the pre-OS environment with UEFI - Building Windows 8 - Site Home - MSDN Blogs

[FreedomThroughAnarchism]

Adding some more fuel to the little spat on the issue: Windows 8 secure boot would 'exclude' Linux ? The Register

[Asheville Native]

I understand M$'s position about what can be done TO their OS, or not.

But where in the hell to they get off thinking they can block what I do with my hardware, when their OS ain't running? Will the new EULA include my hardware?

[Skunk Workz]

Originally Posted by Asheville Native

I understand M$'s position about what can be done TO their OS, or not.

But where in the hell to they get off thinking they can block what I do with my hardware, when their OS ain't running? Will the new EULA include my hardware?

They aren't blocking anything on the hardware level. They are only requiring that OEM builders that want the "Win8 Logo" turn on UEFI.

They aren't requiring the MB manufacturer to remove the ability to turn off UEFI.

Windows itself doesn't even require UEFI, and will boot with it turned off.

[NHDave]

Originally Posted by Asheville Native

I understand M$'s position about what can be done TO their OS, or not.

But where in the hell to they get off thinking they can block what I do with my hardware, when their OS ain't running? Will the new EULA include my hardware?

[Brill]

Originally Posted by NHDave

I second that