Ringfencing ™

Ringfencing™ is a patented ThreatLocker^® security technology that restricts how applications can interact with each other, the operating system, and the internet. By creating strict boundaries, Ringfencing prevents even trusted applications from being hijacked and used as weapons in cyberattacks. For example, Microsoft Word may be allowed to open documents, but Ringfencing can stop it from launching PowerShell or connecting to the internet.

How can your business implement Ringfencing^™?

The key to effective Ringfencing is applying policies that reflect how your business actually uses applications. Begin by mapping out what each approved application legitimately needs to do, and then explicitly deny everything else.

So says ThreatLocker Chief Product Officer Rob Allen.

Allen emphasizes that while detection tools focus on spotting “bad” behavior, they can fail if the wrong action slips through. Ringfencing flips this model: it doesn’t try to detect malicious code. It simply blocks applications from doing anything outside their defined role.

The power of controlled applications

“Detection requires a decision,” Allen explains. “If your tool decides wrong, game over. With Ringfencing, the application can only do what you’ve allowed it to do. Even if malware gets in, it can’t run wild.”

This principle makes Ringfencing especially effective against fileless malware, living-off-the-land attacks, and threats that exploit trusted software. By limiting lateral movement and unauthorized behaviors, Ringfencing neutralizes attacks before they escalate.

Easy implementation and broad benefits

Configuring Ringfencing policies is straightforward with the ThreatLocker platform. Administrators can define what apps can access, who can use them, and whether they’re allowed to reach sensitive areas like the registry or external networks. The result is not only stronger protection but also better compliance, as organizations can prove that applications are tightly controlled.

Key takeaway

‍Ringfencing strengthens Zero Trust environments by ensuring applications behave only as intended, blocking cybercriminals from weaponizing trusted tools.

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