Microsoft Introduces Mandatory Runtime Integrity and Granular Consent Controls in Windows Security Overhaul

Microsoft has announced fundamental changes to Windows security architecture through two new mandatory frameworks: Windows Baseline Security Mode and User Transparency and Consent. These updates, currently in phased rollout, introduce enforceable runtime integrity requirements and granular permission controls that significantly alter application behavior and user interaction models.

Runtime Integrity Enforcement

Windows Baseline Security Mode establishes mandatory code-signing verification as the default operational state. Under this framework:

• Only applications, services, and drivers with valid digital signatures from trusted authorities will execute
• Administrators can create temporary exceptions for legacy applications via Group Policy controls
• Developers must implement runtime checks using new APIs to verify security status before executing privileged operations
• Unsigned code execution attempts will trigger system-level blocks with audit logging

This replaces previous optional device guard configurations with always-on enforcement. Organizations must now inventory all unsigned line-of-business applications and either obtain valid signatures or document exception justifications before full deployment.

Granular Access Consent Requirements

The User Transparency and Consent framework introduces contextual permission prompts modeled after mobile OS security:

• Applications must request explicit approval before accessing 27 defined sensitive resources including cameras, microphones, document folders, and installation directories
• Each prompt details the requesting application, resource type, and access duration
• Consent settings become revocable through a centralized permissions dashboard
• Enterprise deployments can pre-configure application allowlists via Intune policies

Unlike traditional UAC prompts, these controls operate at the resource level with persistent tracking. Developers must modify applications to:

1. Declare required resource accesses in manifests
2. Implement graceful failure when consent is denied
3. Support runtime permission checks without assuming blanket access

Compliance Timeline and Implementation

While Microsoft hasn't published specific deadlines, organizations should prepare for:

Phase	Requirements	Deadline Estimate
Development	API integration testing	Q3 2026
Pilot Deployment	Exception documentation	Q4 2026
Full Enforcement	Signed application catalog	Q1 2027

These changes respond directly to the 2024 CrowdStrike driver incident and emerging AI agent risks. Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative documentation confirms these frameworks will become prerequisites for future Windows feature updates. IT departments should audit application portfolios immediately and begin user education on the new consent model.

Administrators can review technical specifications in the Windows Baseline Security Mode documentation and configure early testing builds through the Windows Insider Program.