Linux beats Windows when it comes to security
Security levels in Linux servers generally exceed those in Windows servers, providing a more secure and manageable environment with significantly more functionality in terms of security integration and management.
Software bugs are not unique to any one product, but Linux systems are rarely the target of attacks. Furthermore, those attacks tend to be limited in scope because user accounts and server applications do not (and should not) have access to the facilities viruses use to infect systems and destroy data.
Here is a comparison between Linux and windows that explore the following six areas:
- Core Platform – Linux code is subject to public scrutiny, its facilities are extremely powerful, and it is possible to disable loadable modules entirely. In comparison, Windows has a lack of extensibility in its security architecture and it has a troubling reliance on security through obscurity.
- Deployment and Management – Linux is an excellent choice in terms of deployment and security management, there are a huge number in each area. Windows Server 2003 can give administrators a false sense of security.
- Patch Management – Windows requires regular mandatory updates and companies have experienced high clean up costs due to dealing with viruses. Linux works better on desktops because the ancillary services, such as web serving (which are the primary targets for Linux attacks) are generally deployed only on servers.
- Network Layer – The firewalling facilities in Linux exceed those in Windows 2003 Server, but these are unlikely to be used as extensively in desktop systems.
- Application Stack – Security best practices are similar between Linux and Windows, no matter which operating system is selected. Linux has a resistance to traditional boot sector and other viruses that attack system level devices.
- Standards Compliance – Standards compliance is Linux servers' primary development model; new features and fundamental changes are often made solely to support new standards. Windows supports a wide range of standards, but Microsoft continues to use its Embrace and Extend strategy to increase customer lock-in on its platform.
Conclusion
In terms of security, Linux is more secure and stable than Windows. The majority of Microsoft Windows patches still commonly require a reboot during installation, causing system downtime and lost productivity.
Linux servers excel in the most critical areas of security, while promising to soon match or exceed Windows in the few areas where it is behind.
For more information on Linux servers visit our FAQ section.