What is Data Execution Prevention?

Applies to all editions of Windows Vista. Which edition of Windows Vista am I using?

Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a security feature that can help prevent damage to your computer from viruses and other security threats. Harmful programs can try to attack Windows by attempting to run (also known as execute) code from system memory locations reserved for Windows and other authorized programs. These types of attacks can harm your programs and files.

DEP can help protect your computer by monitoring your programs to make sure that they use system memory safely. If DEP notices a program on your computer using memory incorrectly, it closes the program and notifies you.

See also

• Data Execution Prevention: frequently asked questions
• Change Data Execution Prevention settings