Windows 11 Upgrades: Key Driver Enhancements in 25H2
Each iteration of Windows not only introduces user-focused UX and UI improvements but also includes critical backend upgrades, particularly pertaining to drivers. With the recent release of Windows 11 24H2, Microsoft rolled out the WDDM (Windows Display Driver Model) version 3.2, which brings enhanced AV1 support and improved mechanisms for managing driver crashes.
Legacy Features phased Out
In a notable shift, Microsoft has chosen to phase out certain legacy features, such as Device Stage, which played a significant role during the Windows 7 era. The removal of these outdated components reflects a broader strategy to streamline and modernize the user experience.
Upcoming Changes in Windows 11 25H2
While specifics about driver-related features in the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 remain under wraps, recent announcements reveal that Microsoft has updated its driver testing protocols specifically for this version. This update focuses on enhancing the integrity and security of third-party drivers.
Enhancements to Driver Certification Process
Microsoft has revised the static analysis requirements essential for Windows driver certification ahead of the new release. The Windows Hardware Certification Program (WHCP) employs two key testing methodologies: static analysis, which reviews driver code without execution, and dynamic analysis, which assesses driver behavior during operation.
New Certification Requirement: CodeQL Static Tools Logo Test
For third-party drivers targeting Windows 11 25H2, Microsoft mandates adherence to the Static Tools Logo Test, which utilizes GitHub’s CodeQL — a powerful static analysis engine for inspecting code security before deployment. This move aligns with Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative, which emphasizes elevated security standards across its platforms.
The updated certification requirements necessitate kernel-mode driver submissions to successfully complete the Static Tools Logo Test prior to receiving WHCP certification. According to Microsoft’s blog post, the prerequisites for executing the updated static analysis tests include:
Before running the updated static analysis tests, ensure the following components are in place:
Further Information
For more details regarding these updates and changes, you can refer to the official blog post on Microsoft’s Tech Community website here.
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