> Do not install third party software that runs in kernel mode. T
You mean don't install Steam nor the Epic Store, nor many of the games.
Note: I'm agreeing with you except that pretty much the only reason I have a Windows machine is for games. I do have Steam installed. I also have the Oculus software installed. I suspect both run in kernel mode. I have to cross my fingers that Valve and Facebook don't do bad things to me and don't leave too many holes.
I don't install games that require admin.
Oh, and I have Photoshop and I'm pretty sure Adobe effs with the system too >:(
Admin privileges aren't the same thing as a kernel-mode driver. Steam does require admin to be installed, but it does not install a kernel-mode driver.
I've never seen a program running in kernel mode other than AV software. Pretty sure all stuff you listed doesn't. Asking admin permissions doesn't mean it's kernel mode software.
this "kernel level = invasive" paranoia that's been going on lately is complete FUD at its core and screams tech illiteracy
no software vendor needs to or wants to write a driver to spy on you or steal your data when they can do all of that with user-level permissions without triggering any AV.
3rd party drivers are completely fine, and its normal that advanced peripherals like an Oculus uses them
You mean don't install Steam nor the Epic Store, nor many of the games.
Note: I'm agreeing with you except that pretty much the only reason I have a Windows machine is for games. I do have Steam installed. I also have the Oculus software installed. I suspect both run in kernel mode. I have to cross my fingers that Valve and Facebook don't do bad things to me and don't leave too many holes.
I don't install games that require admin.
Oh, and I have Photoshop and I'm pretty sure Adobe effs with the system too >:(