What is the Microsoft Pluton Processor and how does it work?
Pluton is the new chip-to-cloud security processor developed by Microsoft. This is in collaboration with the leading chipmakers AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm. The new security processor pioneered in Xbox and Azure Sphere, will now bring even more enhanced security to future Windows PCs.
Pluton is built right into the CPU, removing the need for outside communication between the trusted platform module and the CPU. Microsoft says this helps prevent attacks and theft of credential and encryption keys even if the attackers have physical possession of the device.
Benefits of the Microsoft Pluton Processor
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Physical attack prevention
Attackers will not be able to extract sensitive data such as encryption keys, user biometric data, and account credentials even if they have malware installed or physical possession to PCs with Pluton. Secure Hardware Cryptography Key (SHACK) technology is also used to isolate keys thus adding an additional layer of security. -
Security updates from the cloud
Pluton is integrated with Windows Updates. Microsoft can directly deliver updates to users without having to rely on its OEM partners.
Microsoft Pluton vs TPM: How do they differ?
Trusted Platform Module or TPM is a separate hardware component used to securely store sensitive information on Windows PCs while Pluton is built directly into the CPU. Pluton and its TPM-like functionality make it harder for attackers to extract sensitive data. Pluton works with existing TPM specifications and APIs. This allows users to benefit from TPM-powered features such as BitLocker and System Guard.
When will devices with this chip launch?
Microsoft announced at CES 2022 that Lenovo and AMD would launch the first Pluton-powered PCs. All Ryzen 6000 series processors will feature the Pluton chip. AMD says that there will be more than 200 laptops packing Ryzen 6000 processors in 2022 from major computer manufacturers like Razer, Dell, and HP. Qualcomm was first to announce the use of Pluton in its Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 chips however AMD’s new laptop processors will be the earliest to arrive in the market.
