Windows support in Qubes

[adw]

@tanky0u

I remember reading on this forum that Qubes Windows Tools (QWT) doesn’t work on QubesOS 4.2, due to some vulnerability with the drivers that come from Xen (? I read that on QubesOS blog a while ago, and back then couldn’t understand the specifics of it, and now, I am failing to remember it properly).

I think you’re thinking of this QSB:

QSB-091: Windows PV drivers potentially compromised

We have published Qubes Security Bulletin 091: Windows PV drivers potentially compromised. The text of this QSB and its accompanying cryptographic signatures are reproduced below. For an explanation of this announcement and instructions for authenticating this QSB, please see the end of this announcement. Qubes Security Bulletin 091 ---===[ Qubes Security Bulletin 091 ]===--- 2023-07-26 Windows PV drivers potentially compromised User …

@tanky0u

What is the status of QWT going to be with QubesOS 4.2 when 4.2 gets a proper release (which should be soon). I remember @marmarek mentioning wanting/working for it to be back again available for 4.2 release. Is this still the case and on track?

I think you’re thinking of this thread:

QWT (support for Windows in Qubes OS) is not available anymore. When will this be solved?

Qubes Windows Tools (QWT) were removed from Qubes OS (replaced with a dummy placeholder file) due to potential risk of QWT being compromised. I want to make clear, if possible: What is plan for this situation? How long will it take to make QWT available again? Dates, releases? How users are expected to use QWT right now? Should users consider upcoming R4.2 to be the first Qubes OS version in a while that does not support Windows running with QWT at all? It is a huge step backward and definit…

I’m not aware of any more recent news since then.