In 2023 we joined the AMTSO organization (Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization). In our roles there, in an international community of experts, we work to improve the transparency, objectivity and quality of security software testing.
Now, to meet Microsoft’s standards in testing security solutions, we are joining the Microsoft Virus Initiative (MVI), which aims to:
- First, to work with vendors of broadly defined security software (AV, NextGenAV, EDR, XDR, MDR) to better secure Windows operating systems.
- Second, MVI is targeting, among others, testing organizations such as AVLab.co.uk or AV-Comparatives.org, which, in compliance with international technical guidelines, test software from various vendors against malware and cyber attacks.
Microsoft requires Windows security technology vendors to confirm the effectiveness of their products in tests such as AVLab.co.uk. In practice, this translates into the vendor receiving an “Excellent” certificate from AVLab as part of our tests called Advanced In-The-Wild Malware Test.
An additional benefit of belonging to MVI is:
- Access to resources that help improve the overall security of users of the Windows ecosystem.
- Early access to Windows technologies, so that companies can adapt their products before the release of new versions of the system (here early access todocumentation on SmartScreen, ASLR, or Secure Boot can be mentioned as an example).
- Standardization of threat detection methods through tools and APIs.
Although Microsoft is developing its own antivirus program, Microsoft Defender, for Windows 10/11, it does not prohibit “competitors” from providing a variety of solutions with a different way of securing the Windows environment. In this way, the end customer is guaranteed a greater choice of software for their needs, budget and level of sophistication, on the other hand, companies providing defense solutions must compete for the customer with innovative technologies.
About AVLab Cybersecurity Foundation
AVLab Cybersecurity Foundation is a renowned security software testing organization that focuses on improving digital protection through rigorous analysis of operating system security solutions. Known for their comprehensive methodologies, AVLab experts evaluate the effectiveness of various products in real-world scenarios. By continually updating its testing protocols, AVLab provides valuable cybersecurity analysis to help both consumers and businesses make informed decisions about their digital security.
