What is MacOS High Sierra?

Examining the Robust Built-In Security of MacOS High Sierra: Addressing Malware and Cybersecurity Concerns for Mac Users

MacOS High Sierra, which was the fifteenth major release of OSX from Apple Inc., is designed to enhance the user experience on desktops and laptops. Among the myriad other features, one of its core strengths is advanced cybersecurity measures and robust inbuilt antivirus programs, demonstrating Apple's dedication to maintaining their reputation for excellent security standards.

MacOS High Sierra introduced several new technologies designed to improve the security integrity of Apple devices. New technologies, such as Intel's 6th Generation Skylake Processor, were incorporated into the system to enhance it with a plethora of features primarily aimed at delivering device security and protection against rising global threats. Notably, High Sierra came with an advanced file system called the Apple File System (AFS) to enhance data security on Apple devices. This new file system improved encryption for data at rest and enabled faster encryption for data in transit.

Another cybersecurity feature offered by MacOS High Sierra was Kernel Patch Protection. This technology is responsible for prohibiting the use of kernel-level codes by user-level programs, thus prohibiting malicious code injection into the kernel code section. It acts as a vital line of defense by safeguarding the kernel against exploitation and unwanted modifications.

As a response to phishing and identity theft, MacOS High Sierra included an updated Safari browser with an inbuilt defense mechanism. Safari would alert users about suspicious websites and prevented them from sharing sensitive information unintentionally. This helped undermine efforts by cybercriminals who might use trust-based attacks or malware to breach firm and home networks.

The MacOS High Sierra included System Integrity Protection (SIP), an essential security protocol to restrict the power of the root user, thus safeguarding the system from any unauthorized root-level modifications. The system literally puts a virtual cage around certain files and directories, protecting them from being tampered with by malware or other malicious threats. For those who might be concerned about the compromise of their privacy through apps, Apple introduced intelligent tracking prevention in High Sierra to protect browser history.

In terms of antivirus protection, MacOS High Sierra's inbuilt software, XProtect, plays a critical role. This anti-malware tool by Apple was designed to protect users from several widely spread Trojans and malware. XProtect combined with Gatekeeper, another antivirus feature, delivers an effective antivirus defense. Gatekeeper ensured that only digitally signed apps by identified developers or directly downloaded from the App Store can be launched, contributing further to decrease the likelihood of installing malicious apps.

MacOS High Sierra's Mail app was also adapted with phishing protection to prevent users from falling victim to scam emails. The app checks whether the email originates from a trusted source and prior identifiable features. If it marks the email as deceptive, the information is used to improve security algorithms.

Even with all these high-security measures, it's important to remember that no operating system, including MacOS High Sierra, can guarantee 100% invulnerability to cyber threats. it definitely set a high bar in consumer device protection at the time of its release. While advanced attackers may, over time, come up with new ways of attacking systems, vigilant updates and patches from Apple are expected to combat these vulnerabilities.

MacOS High Sierra embedded equips the machines with a robust defense system to ensure better data protection, disk encryption, and malware prevention. Cybersecurity and antivirus divisions under High Sierra presented advanced technologies to prevent online security risks, thereby helping users have safer and more secure experiences using Apple devices.

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