Organizations always set aside a sure amount of resources to make sure that their network systems are well protected. In this instance, a large company can create its security operation center dedicated to protecting all the computers and files within the organization by integrating identity management solutions, SIEM, and firewalls.
When we talk about an organization’s Operating System preference to use, this will also include the anti-malware solutions that come with the installed software or device.
The common questions that follow this topic concern the inherent nature of the OS, and which OS device is better when it comes to security against hackers and malware.
Our topic in this article will give you a better insight into the various factors that different operating systems for a cybersecurity posture.
We have different leading operating softwares and devices in the market. The top and most used in our list are Windows, macOS, and Linux. Windows are mostly used in the enterprise industry, the macOS or Unix-based OS is famously known to be used in Apple computer or devices, and Linux is an open-source OS that is commonly used by a group of people who wants to be different than the casual users.
Windows OS
Windows is a platform that is known to be very adaptive and diverse, it can accommodate almost all types of applications and software. This made Windows OS less secure. It’s not because the company has fewer security protocols integrated into their system but because of its wide range of attack surfaces and predominant use in the market. Because of these facts that even hackers most likely use the Windows system, and would also most likely be their target.
We can safely conclude that Windows OS is like a double-edged sword that can work both for a strong advantage, and a formidable disadvantage as well.
To combat these remaining threats, Windows experts and engineers have continuously created security innovations while integrating machine learning to add up a security layer in the new system.
The main reason why hackers target Windows OS is not because of its underlying vulnerabilities but because hackers choose to target Windows OS over macOS and Linux OS. Hacking Windows has a higher probability of a successful attack because of the large number of users and attack surfaces.
In recent years, Windows have focused on improving the security system by continuously updating their system, integrating anti-malware softwares, and the use of sandboxes. This will allow your device to detect threats that are not filtered well.
macOS
macOS is very famous for having a good reputation in security. Nevertheless, it still has its security flaws that can still be used as an attack point for hackers.
What makes this operating software secure is the use of the T2 Security Chip that is installed in new devices. This chip supports the device feature for secure boot, touch ID system, encrypted storage, and FileVault.
The use of macOS does not free you from malware or potential threats. But, it has fewer risks than that of the Windows OS. In addition to the security chip, Apple tends to use its software applications and programs. This makes the device more of private and personal use.
Now, Apple combat’s these potential risks by using their System Integrity Protection. This protects the system from any modifications and entitlement.
Linux
Unlike the other operating system, Linux is open-source software that is used by thousands of people all over the world. This allows the company to look into the community findings in terms of vulnerabilities and find an immediate security patch for every problem.
Compared to Windows and macOS, experts have found that Linux is far safer than the two. Linux integrates several types of security systems that are well suited with each other, instead of the traditional integration of firewall or anti-malware. This technique has proven to have solved more issues in cybersecurity.
An open-source platform allows you to make use of the user experience interface in continuously promoting your security system. It is far more realistic, efficient, and faster.
Career Opportunity
From our discussion today, cybersecurity experts must be diverse with their technical ability to handle and manage different varieties of computer operating softwares. The integration of security protocol that is OS-specific will also require the lead from an expert who has deep knowledge of the OS.
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