Will Windows 8 PCs Lock Out Linux?

Windows 8, from what we know so far, requires UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) on ARM processors and supports UEFI on x86 (either 32-bit or 64-bit) hardware. Part of the latest UEFI specification allows for something called ‘Secure Boot’, in which the firmware restricts drivers and executables from loading unless they are signed by one of the keys pre-installed in the firmware (source). The issue centers around OEM’s and their relationship with Microsoft; for a new pre-built Windows 8 PC to sport the “Designed for Windows 8″ logo, it must have UEFI enabled with ‘Secure Boot’ and have Microsoft’s signed keys pre-loaded into the PC’s firmware.

So, why is this a problem? Well, an OEM computer with this configuration disallows any other OS from being loaded or booted, such as Linux. System builders and DIY folks need not worry, as this only pertains to the OEM machines. Even then, you may be able to call their tech support and obtain a work around, but we won’t know until the Windows 8 OEM PCs start shipping.