Windows Kernel Lockdown: A Win for Linux Gamers?

Summary

The video discusses Microsoft's potential move to restrict third-party software vendors' access to the Windows kernel, following the CrowdStrike incident. It explores the implications for Linux gaming, suggesting that while it might seem beneficial, there are many nuances and unresolved issues. The video argues that the real problem is game developers' lack of support for Linux, not anti-cheat software compatibility. It also raises concerns about Microsoft's monopolistic tendencies and the negative impact on competition and product quality.

Takeaways

• 🔒 Microsoft is considering locking down the Windows kernel, which could potentially impact software vendors.
• 🎮 The author suggests that this move might have a silver lining for Linux gaming enthusiasts, but also warns of potential complications.
• 🤔 The script raises questions about how security software will operate without kernel-level access and the potential need for new APIs.
• 🚫 The 'crowd strike incident' is mentioned as a catalyst for Microsoft's desire to secure their kernel, highlighting the vulnerability of current systems.
• 🛡️ The script discusses the history of Microsoft's attempts to close the kernel since the Vista era and the pushback they received from security software vendors and regulators.
• 🔄 The author speculates that if an API were created, it could eventually be replicated by Wine and Proton, possibly improving Linux compatibility with Windows software.
• 🚫 The script points out the risk of using Proton for anti-cheat software, as it could lead to false positives and game bans.
• 💻 The author criticizes game developers for not supporting Linux, despite its growing market share and technological advantages.
• 📉 The script argues that Microsoft's kernel lockdown could do more harm than good, citing monopolistic tendencies and poor security track records.
• 📈 It is suggested that the closure of the Windows kernel could actually hasten the demise of Windows, as Linux continues to gain market share and improve in usability.
• 🌐 The author predicts the inevitability of Linux dominance, considering its current growth and the support from major players in the tech industry.

Q & A

What is Microsoft's recent stance on software vendors and the Windows kernel?

Microsoft is keen on locking out software vendors from the Windows kernel, a move that is seen by some as potentially beneficial for Linux gaming enthusiasts.

What incident prompted Microsoft's consideration of locking down the Windows kernel?

The CrowdStrike incident, where a single vendor's software caused widespread disruption across multiple industries, prompted Microsoft to consider locking down the kernel.

Why has Microsoft wanted to close the kernel since the Vista era?

Microsoft has wanted to close the kernel since the Vista era to solidify its position as the only valid PC operating system, but objections from security software vendors and EU regulators prevented this.

What does the speaker believe would be the outcome if security software loses privileged access in Windows?

The speaker believes that Microsoft would have to create an API for these security solutions to continue operating, which could eventually be replicated by Wine and Proton for Linux.

How does the speaker view the potential impact of Microsoft's kernel lockdown on Linux gaming?

The speaker does not believe that Microsoft's kernel lockdown will necessarily help Linux gaming, as it could lead to more control by Microsoft over its competition and potentially worsen the Windows product.

What is the speaker's opinion on the compatibility of anti-cheat software with Proton on Linux?

The speaker suggests that the problem is not the incompatibility of anti-cheat software with Proton, but rather the lack of support for Linux by live service game developers.

What examples does the speaker provide of anti-cheat solutions available for Linux?

The speaker mentions Easy Anti-Cheat and BattleEye as examples of major anti-cheat solutions that are already available for Linux.

Why does the speaker argue that Microsoft's track record with security is poor?

The speaker cites a recent revelation of a severe, unpatched vulnerability in Windows Update that has existed for over six months as evidence of Microsoft's poor security track record.

What is the speaker's view on the current state of Windows as a product?

The speaker believes that Windows is already a terrible product and that closing off the kernel space would exacerbate this by reducing competition and increasing Microsoft's complacency.

What evidence does the speaker provide for the growing popularity of Linux?

The speaker points to the rise in Linux desktop usership according to the Steam Hardware Survey and the increasing number of pre-built computers shipping with Linux pre-installed as evidence of its growing popularity.

What does the speaker predict for the future of Windows if the kernel is closed off?

The speaker predicts that a closed kernel could hasten the demise of Windows, as it would further limit competition and potentially push more users towards Linux.