With just one week to go before Microsoft launches its major Windows 10 Anniversary update, much of the focus has been on the new consumer-oriented features of the OS. But Redmond chiefs are quietly hoping that new security capabilities in the updated OS will help to reel in a few more enterprise customers too.

First up is Windows Information Protection, a new system which is designed to help IT managers better compartmentalize business and personal data on corporate devices.s.

With Windows Information Protection, IT can now encrypt corporate data on employee’s devices using keys that only they control. This brings a number of benefits, including the ability to remotely wipe corporate data when an employee leaves the company. In addition, Windows Information Protection enables IT to set polices about which apps can use company data, preventing employees from accidentally (or otherwise) sharing corporate secrets.

Windows Information Protection doesn’t come free though, because it’s only available to enterprises with a Windows 10 Enterprise E3 subscription, available for $7 per employee, per month.

Also, the Anniversary Update sees the release of Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection, a new system that leverages machine learning technology to protect organizations after a security breach. Windows Defender ATP is designed to detect attacks and contain them as soon as possible, and does so through a combination of software running on each device, and a cloud-based service that alerts IT to possible breaches. If an attack is detected, the software immediately suggests what action to take to contain the breach.

According to Rob Lefferts, director of program management for Windows Enterprise and Security, this is an important new capability, because many attackers will attemp to place multiple new backdoors inside a company’s systems once they get inside, in order to avoid being kicked out again.

Organizations that wish to deploy Windows Defender ATP will need a more expensive Windows 10 Enterprise E5 subscription in order to do so. Microsoft refuses to disclose the pricing publicly, instead urging companies to speak to its partners to find out more information.

Microsoft is desperately trying to push Windows 10 as the operating system for enterprises concerned about security. It comes at a time when cyber attacks seem to be more prevalent than ever before, and an iron-clad Windows 10 could well prove attractive. Still, it remains to be seen if the new features will help encourage greater enterprise adoption of Windows 10. While both capabilities sound like the real deal, they require a significant amount of investment to get them up and running.

Photo Credit: nielskliim via Compfight cc