Безопасность windows linux mac os

When admins go to battle over which operating system is the most secure, it’s time to turn to our guide on endpoint security. The real answer is here!

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Every sysadmin has their own favorite kind of box, and while most enterprises these days tend to have a mix of OSs in their fleet, organizational needs will typically favor deployment of one platform over another. This leads to the inevitable comparison of operating systems in terms of security, with some admins believing one platform is intrinsically more secure than another. If one admin insists macOS is more secure than Microsoft Windows, and another chimes in that SELinux trumps them all, who are you to believe? Is there any objective answer to the question of which is the most secure?

In this post, we’ll review some of the technologies and arguments that lead some people to claim one platform is more or less secure than another. We’ll then round off by suggesting that what drives these claims is a fundamental misunderstanding of what “enterprise security” really means, and what it involves on a practical level.

Security Features

There are certainly differences among the OSs when it comes to key security features like built-in anti-malware tools, sandboxing, system protection and codesigning. Is one OS clearly better than the others? Let’s see how they stack up.

Anti-Malware

Windows 10 comes with a free built-in AV-suite that gives most paid legacy AV solutions a run for their money. It is reasonably competent at detecting commodity malware through the use of signatures, YARA rules and reputation checks, although it will not protect the enterprise against more advanced attacks, and it is also subject to various PowerShell bypasses. Despite that, it’s a lot better than Apple’s rudimentary trio of application security technologies, Gatekeeper, XProtect and Malware Removal Tool. Linux doesn’t come with any built-in AV, although there are free packages like ClamAV available for it, just as there are for the other platforms. Round 1 to Windows then.

Sandboxing

A sandbox is a closed or jailed environment in which a process is executed. The beauty of sandboxes is they protect the rest of your computer from untrusted processes, as the sandbox effectively prevents the process from reading and writing to other files, interacting with other processes or changing system settings. This is especially important for web browsers that can run JavaScripts. If a malicious script on a website can break out of the browser’s sandbox, it could infect the rest of the computer.

Windows and macOS both sandbox apps installed from their own App Stores by default, but there’s nothing to stop apps installed from other sources from running uncontained. Linux has a wealth of options to sandbox any process, so long as you’re something of a power user. SELinux and AppArmor are readily available on major distros, and this might explain why some Linux users believe Linux is more secure than Windows and macOS. One on the scoresheet for Linux systems.

Codesigning

Codesigning is an authentication technology that ensures that an application or process has come from the source it says it has come from. In addition, codesigning ensures that the executable, package or bundle has not been tampered with since it was digitally signed.

Windows, Linux and macOS all make use of codesigning to some degree, though all platforms ship with some unsigned code, too. The problem with unsigned code is that bad actors can replace a binary with their own or inject malicious code directly into an unsigned, running process.

On Macs and Windows machines, codesigning checks are made not just on installation but also on first run of the application. This extra security is missing on Linux boxes. No clear winner, but arguably Linux is lagging behind the other two on this one.

System Protection

You want an OS with protection from rootkits and malware that tries to modify or replace the core system utilities, and in this category macOS comes out on top. Apple’s System Integrity Protection (SIP) is built-in and entirely transparent to the user. The effect of this is that even root cannot change some things – a situation many Linux power users would find intolerable, but which is a great defence against certain kinds of malware behaviors. Windows has secure boot and trusted boot to protect the system prior to any AV solution kicking in, but these are not even close to being as solid as Apple’s SIP and the additional secure enclave that exists on touchbar-equipped Macs.

The Popular (and Wrong) Arguments

As can be seen, there’s some variance in the main security features offered by each OS, but overall none is a standout winner or loser when it comes to features. Even so, adherents of one platform or another tend to have a favorite argument or two to back up their position. Let’s take a look at these and see how convincing they are.

1. Windows is the Least Secure Because of its Install Base

There’s no doubt that Windows is the most targeted of all the operating systems simply because the size of the install base makes it the most efficient to attack. If you’re writing malware that can run on 88% of the machines being used in the enterprise, you’re much more likely to achieve a compromise. While that’s statistically true, that doesn’t mean Windows is inherently less secure than other OSs. One could just as equally argue that the popularity of Windows means Microsoft have the most experience of defending against malware attacks. The real point here is that there’s more malware aimed at Windows, and that means you definitely need a good endpoint security solution, but that turns out to be true regardless of which OS you’re running.

2. Linux is the Most Secure Because it’s Open Source

We see people arguing this all the time. The many eyes theory of security is patently flawed. As SentinelOne researcher Dor Dankner recently showed, Linux has a little-recognised privilege escalation vulnerability that was introduced to the Linux kernel in 2004. Despite the code having been reviewed, nothing was done to ameliorate it. Likewise, openssl contained the Heartbleed bug for over two years before eventually being discovered.

3. macOS is the Most Secure Because Apple!

Apple have done well to position themselves in the minds of the public as being “security conscious”, in large part thanks to the closed nature of their mobile platform, iOS, and some very public battles with the FBI about security and privacy. It’s not clear how far this perception extends towards macOS, though. Apple’s marketing certainly makes a big deal of security being “built in“, but the truth is that Mac security features like Gatekeeper, XProtect, and MRT are easily defeasible and not particularly comprehensive. Again, one could argue that having less experience in defending against malware, Apple are not as well-schooled as Microsoft in the art of building a hardened OS.

4. Linux is the Most Secure Because it’s Highly Configurable

It’s true that something like SELinux probably has more ways to ‘harden’ the system than macOS or Windows, but very few enterprises are going to be able to deploy a locked down SELinux install as the desktop OS of choice for their staff, at least not if they want to get any useful work done. It’s rather like saying a vault with no door is the safest vault money can buy. Sure it is, but it’s also practically useless. Security and usability go hand-in-hand, and users will often make less secure decisions if they have to fight against the OS just to get their work done.

Security isn’t a Feature of Your OS

Given that there’s neither an overall blend of technologies nor any knock-down argument that establishes one OS as “more secure” than the others, what is the best way to answer the question?

Despite what some OS vendors claim, security is not a feature you can build in to an operating system for the simple reason that security isn’t a commodity that you can “add” or “take away”. While features like codesigning, sandboxing and system protection are all part of a good security posture, enterprise security is ultimately a practice or set of practices that need to be in your organizational DNA.

Businesses need not only OSs with security features, they need integrated security software solutions and employees who follow security best practices. It’s no use having a system policy that prevents the execution of untrusted software if a local user can be convinced – and has the ability – to simply override it.

The truth of the matter is that regardless of which platform your admins prefer, every OS has its vulnerabilities and it’s likely that your network contains a mixture of operating systems and a mixture of vulnerabilities. With over 80% of pentesters, hackers and hacktivists saying that they leverage social engineering in cyber attacks, it’s clear that choice of OS is really not that significant.

What is most important is that you have solid endpoint security with automated detection and prevention capabilities across your entire fleet, regardless of OS. You also need visibility across your network in order to identify and search for attack indicators. With a single agent solution like SentinelOne that protects Linux, macOS and Windows alike, it really shouldn’t matter what your admins personally prefer to use, or which they claim is the most secure.

The debate over which operating system reigns supreme—Linux, Windows, or macOS—is as enduring as it is crucial. Each OS brings its strengths to the table, from Linux’s open-source resilience and Windows’ widespread accessibility to macOS’s integration and elegant security features.

Choosing a secure OS isn’t just about personal preference; it’s about safeguarding your data and privacy in an increasingly interconnected world. Understanding the nuances of these platforms and which operating system is more secure can empower users to make informed decisions that prioritize digital safety without compromising usability.

Factors Influencing OS Security

The choice of operating system (OS) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding personal and organizational data. Several critical factors influence the security robustness of OS platforms such as Linux, Windows, and macOS.

These factors encompass architectural design, proactive security measures, patch management, and user privacy protocols, all of which contribute to creating a secure computing environment tailored to diverse user needs.

• Architecture: The fundamental design and underlying structure of an OS determine its susceptibility to vulnerabilities.
• Security Updates: Regular updates and patches are crucial for addressing newly discovered security flaws and strengthening defenses.
• Built-in Security Features: Features like firewalls, antivirus integration, encryption tools, and sandboxing enhance the OS’s innate security capabilities.
• Threat Response: Timely response to emerging cyber threats through proactive monitoring and rapid mitigation strategies is essential.
• Privacy Protection: Policies and mechanisms that safeguard user privacy, data encryption standards, and access control measures contribute significantly to overall OS security.

Security Features Comparison

When choosing an operating system (OS), understanding its security features is paramount in ensuring your digital safety. This comparison explores the security offerings of Linux, Windows, and macOS, highlighting their unique strengths in safeguarding user data and defending against cyber threats.

Linux Security Features

Linux is renowned for its robust security architecture, bolstered by:

• Open-source Vigilance: Constant scrutiny by a global community enhances security
• Customizability: Tailor security settings to specific needs
• Package Management: Centralized repositories for secure software installation
• Permissions System: Granular control over user privileges

Windows Security Features

Windows prioritizes security with features including:

• Windows Defender: Integrated antivirus and real-time protection
• SmartScreen: Protection against malicious websites and downloads
• Firewall: Built-in firewall for network security
• BitLocker: Drive encryption for data protection

macOS Security Features

macOS is the best OS for MacBook. It ensures security through:

• Gatekeeper: Controls app installation to prevent malware
• FileVault: Full-disk encryption for data confidentiality
• Sandboxing: Limits app privileges to prevent system access
• Privacy Controls: Enhanced privacy settings for user data protection

Why Linux is Often Considered More Secure Than Windows?

Linux has earned a reputation for robust security measures that set it apart from other operating systems. Here’s why Linux is frequently regarded as more secure than Windows:

• Open-source Vigilance: Continuous scrutiny and contributions from the global open-source community enhance security.
• Customizability: Users can tailor security settings and configurations to suit specific needs, minimizing vulnerabilities.
• Stable Architecture: Linux’s Unix-like architecture inherently prioritizes stability and security.
• Package Management: Centralized repositories and dependency management systems ensure secure software installation and updates.

Security Considerations for Windows

Windows, the most widely used desktop OS, faces unique security challenges and advancements. Here are the key considerations:

• Security Challenges: Windows’ popularity makes it a prime target for cyber attacks, necessitating robust defenses.
• Advancements: Continuous improvements include integrated security features like Windows Defender and SmartScreen, bolstering protection against malware and phishing.
• Patch Management: Regular updates address security vulnerabilities and strengthen system defenses.
• Firewall and Encryption: Built-in firewall and BitLocker drive encryption enhance data security.

macOS: Security Strengths and Weaknesses

macOS is renowned for its intuitive interface and strong security foundations. Here’s an overview of macOS’s security features, strengths, and areas of consideration:

• Gatekeeper: Controls app installation to prevent unauthorized software.
• FileVault: Full-disk encryption ensures data confidentiality.
• Sandboxing: Limits app permissions to prevent system-wide access.
• Privacy Controls: Enhanced privacy settings protect user data.
• Popularity and Target: While macOS traditionally faces fewer malware threats than Windows, its increasing popularity makes it a growing target for cyber attacks.

Comparative Analysis: Which OS is Most Secure?

When evaluating the security of operating systems—Linux, Windows, and macOS—several critical metrics come into play, including threat resistance, performance impact, and user practices. Here’s an in-depth comparison based on these security metrics:

Threat Resistance

• Linux: Benefits from its open-source community, which quickly identifies and patches vulnerabilities.
• Windows: Regular updates and integrated security tools like Windows Defender enhance threat detection and mitigation.
• macOS: Utilizes sandboxing and encryption to protect against malware and unauthorized access.

Performance Impact

• Linux: Known for efficiency and minimal performance impact due to lightweight distributions.
• Windows: Offers robust performance with occasional updates impacting system performance.
• macOS: Balanced performance with optimized hardware integration.

User Practices

• Linux: Users can customize security settings and benefit from community-driven best practices.
• Windows: Requires proactive measures such as regular updates and antivirus software to maintain security.
• macOS: Benefits from Apple’s ecosystem with integrated security features, requiring user awareness for optimal protection.

How Quick Heal Enhances Security on  Windows, and macOS Platforms

Quick Heal provides robust security solutions to enhance protection on both Windows and macOS platforms. Here’s an overview of Quick Heal’s key features and enhancements:

• Advanced Antivirus Protection: Quick Heal’s antivirus engine offers real-time scanning and proactive detection of malware, ransomware, and other threats, ensuring comprehensive protection against malicious software.
• Firewall Protection: Built-in firewall capabilities monitor network traffic and prevent unauthorized access to your system, enhancing overall network security.
• Web Security: Secure browsing features such as Safe Banking and Web Security block malicious websites and phishing attempts, safeguarding your online transactions and sensitive information.
• Data Protection: Encryption features and tools like Secure Delete and Data Theft Protection ensure the security and confidentiality of your sensitive data, protecting against unauthorized access and data breaches.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Quick Heal’s solutions optimize system performance while offering robust security measures, making it a reliable choice for users seeking comprehensive protection across different operating systems.

Secure Your OS with Quick Heal

Choosing the most secure OS—whether Linux, Windows, or macOS—involves weighing various security features and considerations.  Understanding your specific security needs, such as threat resistance, performance impact, and user practices, is crucial in making an informed decision.

By considering these factors and leveraging security solutions like Quick Heal, you can enhance your digital safety significantly. Stay informed, stay protected, and choose a software that best aligns with your security priorities and computing habits.

Related Products:

Quick Heal Total Security

Quick Heal Internet Security

Quick Heal Total Security for Mac

Quick Heal AntiVirus for Server

Quick Heal Total Security for Android

Quick Heal Mobile Security

What Is Operating System Security (OS Security)? 

Operating system security, or OS security, refers to the policies and mechanisms designed to protect an operating system from threats and unauthorized access. It encompasses techniques and tools aimed at securing the OS against viruses, worms, spyware, and other forms of malware, as well as against attacks from hackers seeking to exploit vulnerabilities within the system.

The goal of OS security is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and resources managed by the operating system. This involves implementing measures such as user authentication, permissions management, data encryption, and regular updates to protect against known vulnerabilities. By safeguarding the operating system, these security measures help maintain the overall security posture of a computing environment. 

Why Is OS Security Important? 

OS security is vital because it serves as the foundation of overall system security. The operating system manages access to hardware and resources, making it a target for attacks aiming to exploit vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access or disrupt services. A compromised OS can lead to data breaches, loss of sensitive information, and can provide attackers with a platform to launch further attacks within the network.

Moreover, the importance of OS security extends beyond individual computers to encompass organizational, regional, and global networks. Inadequate OS security measures can expose organizations and even entire economies to significant risks, including financial losses, reputation damage, and legal implications. Therefore, maintaining robust OS security is essential for protecting both personal and organizational assets against a wide range of cyber threats. 

The Basics of OS Security 

Confidentiality

Confidentiality ensures that sensitive information is accessible only to authorized users and is protected from unauthorized access. This principle is fundamental to OS security as it prevents unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data or system functions.

Key mechanisms:

• User Authentication: This involves verifying the identity of users through passwords, biometrics, or multi-factor authentication (MFA). Strong authentication methods ensure that only legitimate users can access the system.
• Access Controls: These define what resources users or processes can access and what actions they can perform. Access control lists (ACLs) and role-based access control (RBAC) are common methods used to enforce these policies.
• Encryption: Data encryption protects information by converting it into a coded form that can only be decrypted by authorized parties. Encrypting data at rest (stored data) and in transit (data being transferred) is crucial to prevent interception and unauthorized access.

Integrity

Integrity involves maintaining the accuracy and consistency of data over its lifecycle. It ensures that information is not altered or tampered with by unauthorized parties, which is essential for the reliability and trustworthiness of the OS.

Key mechanisms:

• Checksums and Hash Functions: These techniques generate a unique value (hash) for a piece of data. Any change to the data results in a different hash value, indicating potential tampering.
• Digital Signatures and Certificates: These are used to verify the authenticity and integrity of digital documents and software. A digital signature ensures that the document has not been altered since it was signed by the sender.
• Audits and Monitoring: Regular audits of system logs and continuous monitoring can detect unauthorized changes to data and configuration settings. Intrusion detection systems (IDS) can alert administrators to potential integrity breaches.

Availability

Availability ensures that the operating system and its services are accessible and functional when needed. This is essential for maintaining the operational readiness of systems and ensuring business continuity.

Key mechanisms:

• Redundancy and Failover: Implementing redundant systems and failover mechanisms ensures that if one component fails, another can take over without service interruption.
• Regular Maintenance: Performing regular system maintenance, including updates and patches, helps prevent unexpected failures and vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
• Network and Application Firewalls: These protect against DoS and DDoS attacks that aim to disrupt service availability by overwhelming the system with traffic.
• Backup and Recovery Plans: Regular backups and well-defined recovery plans enable quick restoration of services in case of data loss or system failure.

Common Types of OS Security Vulnerabilities

Misconfiguration

Misconfiguration vulnerabilities occur when system settings are improperly applied, leaving the operating system exposed to various threats. These issues can arise from default configurations, open ports, weak or default credentials, and improper file permissions. 

Misconfigured systems can be easily exploited by attackers, providing them with unauthorized access to sensitive data or control over system resources. This can lead to data breaches, system downtime, and unauthorized activities within the network. 

To mitigate misconfiguration risks, it’s essential to follow best practices for secure system setup and maintenance. Properly managing system configurations is critical for maintaining a secure operating environment and reducing the attack surface available to potential adversaries.

Installation of Malware

Malware installation involves the unauthorized placement of malicious software on a system, which can compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data. Once installed, malware can perform various malicious activities, such as stealing sensitive information, encrypting data for ransom, or using system resources for illegal purposes like launching attacks on other systems. 

The presence of malware can lead to significant disruptions, financial losses, and damage to an organization’s reputation. The dangers of malware installation are profound, as it can undermine the security of the entire computing environment and spread rapidly across networks.

To mitigate the risks of malware installation, deploying and regularly updating antivirus and anti-malware tools is crucial. User education on the dangers of downloading and installing software from untrusted sources and the implementation of application allowlisting can significantly reduce the likelihood of unauthorized software execution.

Weak Passwords

Weak passwords are a significant security vulnerability, as they can be easily guessed or cracked through brute force attacks. These passwords often lack complexity, are short, or are commonly used phrases. Weak passwords can provide attackers with easy access to user accounts and system resources, leading to unauthorized data access, identity theft, and further exploitation of the system. 

The use of weak passwords compromises the security of the operating system, making it susceptible to attacks that can result in data breaches, loss of sensitive information, and a broader security compromise within the network.

To mitigate the risk of weak passwords, enforcing strong password policies requiring complexity and regular changes is essential. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security, and encouraging the use of password managers can help generate and store strong, unique passwords for each account.

Privilege Escalation

Privilege escalation occurs when an attacker exploits a vulnerability in an operating system to gain elevated access to resources that are normally protected from an application or user. This can allow the attacker to execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, or deploy malware with higher privileges than intended. These vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can enable attackers to bypass security mechanisms and gain control over the entire system.

To mitigate the risk of privilege escalation, it’s essential to regularly apply security patches and updates to the operating system and all installed software. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that users and applications operate with the minimal level of access necessary for their function. Monitoring for unusual activity patterns can also help in detecting attempts at privilege escalation.

Command Injection

Command injection is a type of security vulnerability that occurs when an attacker manages to execute arbitrary commands on the host operating system through a vulnerable application. Unlike other injection flaws that target specific applications or databases, command injection directly affects the OS, allowing attackers to manipulate system-level commands.

Command injection often exploits improperly sanitized user inputs in scripts or applications that execute shell commands. For example, if a web application passes user input directly to a system shell without proper validation or escaping, an attacker could insert malicious commands. This can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, or complete system compromise.

Mitigation strategies against command injection include rigorous input validation and sanitization, avoiding direct execution of user inputs in shell commands, and using safer alternatives such as parameterized APIs or libraries that do not invoke a shell. Employing the principle of least privilege for running applications also reduces the impact of successful command injection attacks by limiting the ability to execute commands with elevated privileges.

Buffer Overflow

Buffer overflow vulnerabilities arise when a program attempts to write more data to a fixed-length block of memory, or buffer, than it can hold. This excess data can overwrite adjacent memory spaces, potentially corrupting or altering other data and leading to unpredictable behavior in software. 

Attackers exploit buffer overflows to execute arbitrary code by carefully crafting the input data that causes the overflow, allowing them to gain unauthorized access or control over a system.

Mitigation strategies against buffer overflow attacks include using programming languages that enforce bounds checking, implementing stack canaries to detect and prevent overflows, and adopting address space layout randomization (ASLR) which makes it more difficult for attackers to predict the location of executed code.

Race Conditions

Race conditions occur in an operating system when multiple processes access and manipulate the same data concurrently and the outcome depends on the sequence of access. This can lead to unpredictable results, including data corruption or loss, and can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access or elevate privileges.

To mitigate race condition vulnerabilities, it’s crucial to implement proper synchronization mechanisms such as locks, semaphores, or mutexes that ensure only one process can access critical data at a time. 

Related content: Read our guide to operating system vulnerabilities (coming soon)

Operating System Hardening Best Practices For Major Operating Systems 

Common Practices for All Operating Systems

Endpoint Security

Endpoint security focuses on securing individual devices, such as desktops, laptops, and mobile phones, which interact with the broader network. Since these devices are often entry points for attackers, endpoint security solutions play a crucial role in detecting, mitigating, and preventing security breaches. 

Tools such as antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems, and firewalls protect against malware, ransomware, and other attacks. Additionally, features like device encryption, disk wiping, and remote lock capabilities provide protection for lost or stolen devices. Regular patching, vulnerability scanning, and system monitoring further ensure that the operating system and installed software remain secure against emerging threats.

Remove or Disable Unused Components and Applications

Operating systems often include various components, services, and applications that may not be necessary for all users or environments. These unused elements can introduce vulnerabilities if left active, creating potential targets for attackers. By systematically reviewing and removing or disabling unnecessary software and services, administrators can minimize the system’s attack surface, making it harder for malicious actors to exploit any weaknesses. 

Regular audits of installed applications and services should be conducted, ensuring only essential tools are present. Disabling unnecessary services like file-sharing protocols or remote desktop services can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access or misuse.

Upgrade to Latest OS Versions and Apply Security Patches

One of the most critical steps in securing any operating system is to keep it up to date with the latest security patches and software versions. Software vendors frequently release updates that address vulnerabilities discovered in their products. Failure to apply these patches leaves systems exposed to known exploits, which attackers can easily target. 

Administrators should implement a robust patch management strategy that automates the deployment of updates across all systems in a timely manner. Testing patches in a controlled environment before applying them to production systems ensures compatibility and stability while maintaining security.

Set and Enforce Strong Password Policies

Weak passwords are a common entry point for attackers, making it essential to enforce strong password policies. A strong password policy should include rules that mandate the use of complex passwords, incorporating a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Passwords should also be long enough to resist brute force attacks, with a recommended minimum length of 12 characters. 

Additionally, regular password expiration policies require users to change their passwords periodically, while account lockout policies can help prevent unauthorized access attempts by locking an account after several failed login attempts. Encouraging users to adopt passphrases, which are both complex and memorable, can further enhance security without sacrificing usability.

Limit the Number of User Accounts and Access to Administrator Privileges

Reducing the number of user accounts with administrative privileges significantly enhances system security by limiting the opportunities for privilege escalation. Attackers often target admin accounts to gain control over an entire system. 

By applying the principle of least privilege (PoLP), administrators can ensure that users only have the access rights they need to perform their specific roles. Limiting administrative accounts also reduces the risk of accidental misconfigurations or system changes by users.

Secure Boot

Secure Boot is a security feature that ensures only trusted software loads during the system startup process. By verifying the integrity and authenticity of firmware, bootloaders, and operating system files through digital signatures, Secure Boot prevents unauthorized or malicious software—such as rootkits or bootkits—from being executed. 

Enabling Secure Boot ensures that attackers cannot replace or tamper with critical startup files to gain control of the system before it fully loads. This feature is particularly important in environments where physical access to machines is possible, as it helps protect against hardware-based attacks that occur before the operating system’s defenses are in place.

Disable Unneeded Ports and Interfaces

Open ports and unused network interfaces present vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to a system. By scanning and identifying open ports, administrators can close or restrict access to ports that are not required for business operations. 

Disabling unused network interfaces and services, such as Bluetooth, USB ports, or legacy protocols like Telnet, can further reduce the risk of exploitation. Firewalls can be configured to block inbound and outbound traffic on non-essential ports, while security policies should enforce strict network segmentation, allowing only approved services to communicate through specific ports.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) strengthens account security by requiring more than one form of verification before granting access to a system. This could include a combination of a password (something you know), a hardware token or mobile app (something you have), and biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition (something you are). Even if an attacker obtains a user’s password, they would still need the additional authentication factor to complete the login process. 

MFA is especially important for critical systems and administrative accounts, as it provides an extra layer of defense against phishing attacks, password theft, and brute force attacks. MFA implementation can be tailored to specific risk levels, ensuring a balance between security and user convenience.

Windows Hardening Best Practices

User Account Control (UAC)

User Account Control (UAC) is a security feature in Windows designed to prevent unauthorized changes to the operating system. By prompting users for administrative approval or credentials when making system-level changes, UAC helps protect against malware and accidental misconfigurations.

To configure UAC for optimal security:

• Set the UAC Level: Adjust the UAC settings to “Always notify” to ensure you are alerted for all changes requiring administrative privileges.
• Limit Administrative Access: Assign administrative rights only to necessary user accounts and use standard accounts for daily tasks to minimize the risk of unauthorized changes.
• Audit UAC Prompts: Regularly review logs of UAC prompts to monitor for unusual or unauthorized attempts to alter system settings.

Windows Firewall with Advanced Security

Windows Firewall with Advanced Security provides a robust mechanism for controlling network traffic to and from your system. It allows the creation of inbound and outbound rules that enhance security by restricting unauthorized access.

To secure your system using the Windows Firewall:

• Enable and Configure Firewall Rules: Ensure the firewall is enabled and define rules to allow only necessary traffic. Block all inbound connections by default and create specific rules to permit trusted applications and services.
• Use Connection Security Rules: Implement connection security rules to enforce IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) for authenticating and encrypting network traffic.
• Monitor and Log Firewall Activity: Regularly check the firewall logs to identify and address suspicious activity or unauthorized access attempts.

Group Policy Configuration

Group Policy allows centralized management and configuration of operating systems, applications, and users’ settings in an Active Directory environment. Properly configured Group Policies enhance security by enforcing consistent settings across the network.

Key practices for Group Policy configuration include:

• Restrict User Permissions: Use Group Policies to enforce the principle of least privilege, restricting user permissions to only what is necessary for their roles.
• Deploy Security Policies: Configure policies for password complexity, account lockout thresholds, and audit logging to strengthen user authentication and monitoring.
• Control Software Installation: Prevent unauthorized software installation and execution by using policies to restrict access to only approved applications.

Secure Boot and BitLocker

Secure Boot and BitLocker are essential features for protecting the integrity and confidentiality of your Windows system.

Secure Boot

This feature prevents unauthorized firmware, operating systems, or UEFI drivers from running at startup by verifying their digital signatures. To enable secure boot, ensure it is enabled in the UEFI firmware settings to protect against bootkit and rootkit attacks.

BitLocker

This drive encryption feature secures data by encrypting entire volumes, preventing unauthorized access to data even if the physical drive is stolen. To configure BitLocker, enable BitLocker on all system and data drives. Use TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for hardware-based encryption and configure recovery keys for data retrieval in case of forgotten passwords.

Configure AppLocker Policies

AppLocker helps control which applications and files users can run by defining rules based on file attributes such as path, publisher, or hash.

To secure your system with AppLocker:

• Create Default Rules: Start by creating default rules to allow necessary applications and block untrusted ones.
• Define Custom Rules: Create custom rules tailored to your organization’s needs, specifying which users or groups can execute specific applications.
• Audit AppLocker Policies: Enable auditing to log allowed and denied application execution attempts, helping to identify and fine-tune policies.

Linux Hardening Best Practices

SSH Hardening

SSH (Secure Shell) is a critical tool for securely accessing Linux systems. Hardening SSH helps prevent unauthorized access and strengthens the overall security posture.

Key practices for SSH hardening:

• Disable Root Login: Edit the SSH configuration file (/etc/ssh/sshd_config) to set PermitRootLogin no. This prevents attackers from attempting to log in directly as the root user.
• Use Key-Based Authentication: Disable password authentication by setting PasswordAuthentication no and enable key-based authentication. This reduces the risk of brute force attacks.
• Change Default Port: Modify the default SSH port (22) to a non-standard port to reduce automated attack attempts. Update the Port directive in the SSH configuration file.
• Limit User Access: Use the AllowUsers or AllowGroups directives to restrict SSH access to specific users or groups.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Integrate 2FA solutions such as Google Authenticator to add an extra layer of security.
• Configure Idle Timeout: Set an idle timeout by adding ClientAliveInterval and ClientAliveCountMax directives to automatically disconnect inactive sessions.

Enable SELinux or AppArmor

SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux) and AppArmor are mandatory access control (MAC) systems that enhance the security of Linux by restricting programs’ capabilities beyond traditional discretionary access control (DAC).

Steps to enable and configure SELinux or AppArmor:

• Enable SELinux: Ensure SELinux is installed and enabled by checking /etc/selinux/config. Set SELINUX=enforcing to activate enforcing mode. Use setenforce 1 to temporarily switch to enforcing mode if currently in permissive mode.
• Configure SELinux Policies: Use predefined policies or create custom policies to define allowed actions for applications. Use tools like semanage, restorecon, and audit2allow to manage and troubleshoot SELinux policies.
• Enable AppArmor: Install AppArmor and ensure it is enabled at boot. Use the aa-status command to check its status. Enforce AppArmor profiles by setting them to “enforce” mode using aa-enforce.
• Configure AppArmor Profiles: Customize AppArmor profiles located in /etc/apparmor.d/ to control application behavior. Use apparmor_parser to load and enforce new profiles.

Disable Unnecessary Services and Daemons

Reducing the number of running services minimizes the attack surface of a Linux system. Steps to disable unnecessary services include:

• Identify Running Services: Use commands like systemctl list-units –type=service or chkconfig –list to list active services.
• Disable Unnecessary Services: Use systemctl disable <service> to disable services that are not required. For older systems, use chkconfig <service> off.
• Mask Unused Services: Prevent a service from being started manually or by another service using systemctl mask <service>.

Implement Access Controls

Proper access controls restrict user permissions and limit potential damage from compromised accounts.

Key practices for implementing access controls:

• Use Sudo for Privileged Commands: Configure /etc/sudoers to allow users to run specific commands as root, reducing the need for full root access.
• Set File Permissions: Regularly review and set appropriate file permissions using chmod, chown, and chgrp commands to restrict access to sensitive files and directories.
• Limit Login Access: Use /etc/security/access.conf to restrict login access to specific users or groups.

Use the Linux Auditing System

The Linux auditing system helps monitor and track system activities, providing valuable information for detecting and responding to security incidents.

Steps to configure the Linux auditing system:

• Install and Enable Auditd: Install the audit daemon (auditd) and ensure it starts at boot with systemctl enable auditd.
• Configure Audit Rules: Define audit rules in /etc/audit/audit.rules or use auditctl to dynamically set rules. Focus on critical files, directories, and system calls.
• Review Audit Logs: Regularly review audit logs located in /var/log/audit/ using tools like ausearch and aureport to identify suspicious activities.

MacOS Hardening Best Practices

Enable FileVault

FileVault is a disk encryption program in MacOS that encrypts the contents of your entire drive. Enabling FileVault ensures that your data is protected, even if your Mac is lost or stolen. FileVault uses XTS-AES-128 encryption with a 256-bit key to help prevent unauthorized access to your information.

Steps to enable FileVault:

1. Open System Preferences and select Security & Privacy.
2. Click on the FileVault tab.
3. Click the lock icon and enter your administrator name and password.
4. Click Turn On FileVault and follow the on-screen instructions.

Use Gatekeeper

Gatekeeper is a security feature that helps protect your Mac from malware and other malicious software by only allowing trusted software to run. This setting ensures that only apps downloaded from the Mac App Store or those signed with a valid Apple developer certificate can be installed, significantly reducing the risk of malware.

Steps to configure Gatekeeper:

1. Open System Preferences and select Security & Privacy.
2. Click on the General tab.
3. Select the option for App Store and identified developers.

Utilize System Integrity Protection (SIP)

System Integrity Protection (SIP) is a security technology in MacOS that helps prevent potentially malicious software from modifying protected files and directories. SIP maintains the integrity of your system by restricting the root user account and protecting system-critical locations.

To enable SIP for your system:

1. Open Terminal and enter csrutil status to see if SIP is currently disabled.
2. If disabled, restart your Mac and hold down Command (⌘)-R to boot into Recovery mode.
3. Open Terminal from the Utilities menu.
4. Enter csrutil enable and restart your Mac.

Secure Safari

Safari is the default web browser on MacOS, and securing it helps protect against web-based threats.

Steps to secure Safari:

1. Open Safari and go to Preferences.
2. In the Security tab, enable Warn when visiting a fraudulent website.
3. In the Privacy tab, enable Prevent cross-site tracking and Block all cookies if your browsing needs allow it.
4. Disable extensions you do not use or trust from the Extensions tab.

Manage Login Items

Managing login items helps ensure that only necessary applications and services start automatically when you log in, reducing potential security risks.

Steps to manage login items:

1. Open System Preferences and select Users & Groups.
2. Click on your user account and select the Login Items tab.
3. Review the list and remove any items you do not recognize or need by selecting them and clicking the minus (-) button.

Enable Stealth Mode

Stealth Mode in MacOS makes your computer less visible on public networks by not responding to certain types of network communications. Enabling Stealth Mode helps protect your Mac from network-based attacks, particularly when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.

Steps to enable Stealth Mode:

1. Open System Preferences and select Security & Privacy.
2. Go to the Firewall tab and click on Firewall Options.
3. Check the Enable Stealth Mode box.

Runtime Protection for Linux Operating Systems with Sternum

Sternum is an IoT security and observability platform. Sternum provides deterministic security with runtime protection against known and unknown threats; complete observability that provides data about individual devices and the entire device fleet; and anomaly detection powered by AI to provide real-time operational intelligence.

Sternum operates at the bytecode level, making it universally compatible with any IoT device or operating system including RTOS, Linux, OpenWrt, Zephyr, Micrium, and FreeRTOS. It has low overhead of only 1-3%, even on legacy devices. 

Visit our dedicated Linux solutions page to learn more about Sternum’s agentless embedded Linux security

Related content about operating system security

• Read our guide to memory corruption
• Learn more about memory leaks
• Common memory safety bugs
• Dead code remediation strategies
• Characteristics of embedded systems

ВВЕДЕНИЕ

Развитие IT области не стоит на месте, в результате чего появляется огромное количество новых операционных систем, однако большинству пользователей известны три основные. Каждая операционная система пользуется популярностью у определенной аудитории, и споры по поводу того, какая же из них лучшая, не прекратятся никогда. Mac, Windows и Linux соперничают между собой, выдвигая на передний план свои достоинства и указывая на недостатки конкурентов. Пользователь, исходя из личных предпочтений, отдает предпочтение определенной операционной системе. А для того, чтобы выбрать среди них лучшую, необходимо рассмотреть отдельно достоинства и недостатки каждой из них. Пользователь отдает предпочтение определенной операционной системе в зависимости от того, что он желает получить в процессе ее использования. Обозначение достоинств и недостатков каждой операционной системы поможет сделать правильный выбор.

Цель исследовательской работы заключается в проведении сравнительного анализа операционных систем семейства Windows, Linux, Mac OS.

Задачи исследовательской работы:

формулировка определения операционной системы;

обозначение функций операционных систем;

выявление достоинств и недостатков операционных систем Windows, Linux, Mac OS.

ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЕ ОПЕРАЦИОННОЙ СИСТЕМЫ

Операционная система — это комплекс взаимосвязанных программ, сопровождающих работу компьютера, которые управляют его работой и обеспечивают запуск и выполнение всех процессов. Использование операционной системы необходимо, потому что правильная работа компьютера состоит из огромного количества операций низкого уровня, которые должны выполняться одновременно. Таким образом, он не может работать без операционной системы, оставаясь бессмысленным набором аппаратного обеспечения.

Операционная система — это мост, который является связующим звеном между компьютером и пользователем. Пользователь даже не подозревает, сколько для, казалось бы, такого простого действия, как копирование файла с одного носителя на другой, нужно выполнить различных сложных операций.

Пользователь не видит всех этих сложных операций, так как операционная система их скрывает от него, а взамен для максимального удобства предлагает простой и функциональный интерфейс. Операционная система – это загружает все программы в оперативную память, выполняет различные действия по запросу выполняемых программ и, дабы избежать перегрузки системы, освобождает оперативную память, которая раннее была занята программами, при их завершении.

Операционные системы можно разделить на несколько групп в зависимости от рассматриваемого признака:

по количеству пользователей выделяют однопользовательские операционные системы (обслуживают только одного пользователя); многопользовательские (работают со многими пользователями);

по числу процессов: однозадачные (работают только над одной задачей, в настоящее время не используются); многозадачные (располагает в оперативной памяти несколько задач одновременно, каждую из которых обрабатывает процессор);

по типу средств вычислительной техники: однопроцессорные, многопроцессорные (задачи выполняются на разных процессорах), сетевые (обеспечивают совместное использование ресурсов всеми выполняемыми в сети задачами);

по типу интерфейса (способа взаимодействия с пользователем) операционные системы делятся на 2 класса: ОС с интерфейсом командной строки и ОС с графическим интерфейсом.

Самыми популярными являются такие операционные системы, как Windows, Mac OS, Linux.

Операционные системы выполняют следующие функции:

обеспечение согласованной работы всех аппаратных средств персонального компьютера;

управление процессами (выполнение программ и обеспечение их взаимодействия с устройствами компьютера);

управление доступом к данным на энергонезависимых носителях с помощью файловой системы;

ведение файловой структуры;

пользовательский интерфейс (взаимодействие с пользователем).

ДОСТОИНСТВА И НЕДОСТАТКИ WINDOWS

Семейство коммерческих операционных систем корпорации Microsoft ориентированы на применение графического интерфейса при управлении. Windows – закрытая (проприетарная) операционная система. История Windows интересна тем, что изначально это был всего лишь интерфейс для операционной системы 80-х и 90-х годов MS-DOS. В настоящее время под управлением Windows находится почти 88% домашних компьютеров, планшетов, ноутбуков. Позиции данной операционной системы только усиливаются. Доказательством этому является результат в 200 миллионов лицензионных копий, которого версия Windows 8.1 сумела достичь меньше чем за 12 месяцев с момента релиза.

Microsoft на рынке программного обеспечения находятся очень давно, однако несмотря на это, некоторые их реализации были неудачными. Вряд ли найдется хотя бы один пользователь, который симпатизировал бы, например, Windows Vista. Несмотря на все это Windows очень популярна среди пользователей ввиду многих причин.

Достоинства:

Совместимость. Существует огромное количество программного обеспечения для Windows. Существуют драйверы для всех устройств;

Поддержка. Ввиду того, что Windows очень популярна среди пользователей, при возникновении проблем или вопросов в процессе использования данной операционной системы найти специалиста, который поможет преодолеть возникшие трудности не составит труда. Microsoft предлагает отличную поддержку;

Доступность. Благодаря максимально понятному интерфейсу, разобраться в Windows не составит труда даже начинающему пользователю.

Недостатки:

Вирусы. Большая часть вредоносного программного обеспечения нацелены именно на Windows по причине ее уязвимости. Именно поэтому для комфортной и безопасной работы данной операционной системы придется приобретать антивирус и постоянно следить за его состоянием;

Быстродействие. В Windows очень много лишнего для обычного пользователя. Непрофессионалу достаточно тяжело разобраться в том, что лишнее, а что нет. Из-за такой загруженности, операционная система не отличается быстротой.

ДОСТОИНСТВА И НЕДОСТАТКИ MAC OS

Проприетарная операционная система, характеризующаяся закрытым исходным кодом, основанная на Unix. Разрабатывается компанией Apple как сопутствующее программное обеспечение для их компьютеров и ноутбуков. Устройствам других производителей в соответствии с пользовательским соглашением запрещено использовать данную операционную систему. Начиная с версии 10.6, системой поддерживаются только процессоры марки Intel, хотя ранее работа велась еще и с PowerPC.

Достоинства:

Защита от вирусов. В этой операционной системе практически нет вирусов, это говорит о безопасности, которую Mac OS гарантирует пользователям;

Надежность. Данная система была написана под конкретные конфигурации компьютеров, что обеспечивает стабильность работы системы и достаточно редкие поломки;

Оптимизация программного обеспечения. Mac OS не может похвастаться таким набором разнообразного программного обеспечение, как Windows, однако в случае Mac OS приложения совершенны в плане совместимости с системой. При такой работе происходит рациональный расход ресурсов, и система намного дольше остается стабильной;

Дизайн. Несомненный, хотя и однозначно не главный плюс операционной системы. В большинстве случаев устройства Apple выглядят выигрышно на фоне своих конкурентов.

Недостатки:

Цена. Однозначно это нельзя назвать недостатком, потому что цена продукции Apple соответствует ее качеству. Однако по сравнению с конкурентами устройства Apple все же дороже;

Физический компьютер. Mac OS разрабатывается на конкретные конфигурации, и поэтому не рекомендуется ее устанавливать на устройства не из семейства Apple. Она будет работать, но для этого придется достаточно долго настраивать ее для комфортной работы;

Совместимость. Количество программ, написанных под Mac, сильно уступает количеству программ под Windows. Точнее сказать, любые программы для Mac можно найти в App Store, но большинство из них платные и не такие удобные, как в Windows.

ДОСТОИНСТВА И НЕДОСТАТКИ LINUX

Этим термином обозначаются все Unix-подобные операционные системы, основой которых является одноименное ядро. Однозначно классифицировать их нельзя, поэтому каждый дистрибутив имеет свои особенности и свой набор прикладных программ. Linux гораздо более популярен на рынке смартфонов, чем среди пользователей персональных компьютеров (операционная система Android имеет в основе Linux ядро).

Достоинства:

Малые технические требования. Этой системе достаточно одного ядра процессора и от 256 до 512 МБ оперативной памяти для того, чтобы работать. Места на диске система занимает очень мало. Linux можно даже с носителя запустить на ПК.

Цена. Данная система особенно популярна среди программистов именно из-за того, что множество программ бесплатны. Linux предоставляет возможность модифицировать систему полностью под себя.

Разнообразие. Linux – это основа, «чистый лист» для вашего творчества. Данная система – только ядро, для того, чтобы его использовать необходимо множество дополнительного софта, что и обеспечивает уникальность операционной системы. Существует множество разнообразных дистрибутивов, именно поэтому пользователь может быть уверен в успехе поиска того, что удовлетворит все его запросы.

Простое применение. Большая часть дистрибутивов достаточно проста в использовании.

Вирусы. Операционная система безопасна и устойчива.

Недостатки:

Совместимость. Могут возникать случаи, когда драйверов для конкретного устройства нет и их приходит писать самому. Функциональность устройства из-за этого страдает.

На Linux очень мало игр, поэтому геймеры предпочитают Windows.

СРАВНЕНИЕ ОПЕРАЦИОННЫХ СИСТЕМ

Для проведения более наглядного и детального анализа сравним рассмотренные операционные системы по наиболее важным для любого пользователя критериям.

Стоимость лицензионной версии

Последняя версия Windows предоставляется на выбор пользователя в двух вариациях – обычной и Pro версии. Обычная версия стоит ориентировочно 9 тысяч рублей и предоставляет возможность пользования всеми основными функциями операционной системы. Pro версия стоит на 4 тысячи рублей дороже, однако обладает расширенным функционалом, что предоставляет возможность, к примеру, шифрования данных. Таким образом, пользователь всегда может произвести апгрейд системы.

Mac OS по умолчанию установлена на всю компьютерную технику Apple, ввиду чего ее можно считать бесплатной. Однако если сравнивать компьютеры Apple и аналогичные по мощности ПК других производителей, то можно заметить существенные отличия в цене. Таким образом, переплаты за технику Apple не избежать. Но все последующие обновления системы совершенно бесплатны, что является несомненным достоинством.

Linux полностью бесплатная операционная система, что в настоящее время делает ее привлекательной для крупных компаний, у которых в пользовании находится немало компьютеров. Бесплатность Linux является ее несомненным достоинством перед другими операционными системами.

Системные требования

Для комфортной работы пользователя в ресурсоемких приложениях ему пригодятся лишние свободные ресурсы, именно поэтому вопрос системных требований сейчас так же актуален.

Для нормальной работы последних версий Windows необходимы двухъядерный процессор, 1 гигабайт оперативной памяти и хорошая видеокарта при желании насладиться качественной графикой без торможения. 32-битные дистрибутивы постепенно уходят в прошлое, а 64-битные требуют больший размер оперативной памяти.

На фоне Windows Linux однозначно выигрывает в этой категории, так как последней для нормального функционирования достаточно одноядерного процессора с частотой 1 гигагерц, 256 мегабайт оперативной памяти и любой видеокарты. Несомненно, для более комфортной работы системы с возможностью работать в ее среде с различными приложениями следует приобретать более новые комплектующие.

Несомненным плюсом Apple является то, что все свои устройства он укомплектовывает достаточно мощным железом, что предотвращает зависания и различные торможения. В теории, Mac OS можно запустить на компьютере с 512 мегабайтами оперативной памяти, процессором с частотой 1 гигагерц и девятью гигабайтами свободного места на жестком диске.

Установка и конфигурирование

С процессом установки и настройки операционной системы сталкивается каждый пользователь, и каждая операционная система ведет себя в таких случаях по-разному. Одни системы настроить достаточно легко ввиду, например, удобства интерфейса, на настройку других систем придется потратить уйму времени, чтобы в конечном итоге была обеспечена корректная работа ОС.

В случае Windows все достаточно просто и понятно. С процессом установки и обновления операционной системы может разобраться даже начинающий пользователь, однако такую операционную систему нужно еще корректно настроить, что сделать уже немного сложнее. Установка драйверов, настройка процессов и служб занимает достаточно времени. Иногда для оптимизации работы системы приходится привлекать стороннее программное обеспечение.

Для установки Linux нужна только флешка с образом, который можно скачать с сайта понравившегося дистрибутива. Сделать это можно совершенно бесплатно.

Установка Mac OS не сложнее, чем у той же Windows, однако в случае первой нет необходимости вводить длинный лицензионный код. Для настройки применяются встроенные средства System Preferences, разбитые на пять категорий, каждая из которых содержит меню с изменяемыми исходными параметрами.

Таким образом, все три системы по данному критерию можно назвать практически равными.

Безопасность

Безопасность остается одним из решающих факторов при выборе операционной системы. Каждый пользователь стремиться к гарантированной защите личных данных, так как многих хранят на компьютере важные материалы, личную информацию, проводят денежные операции в интернете. Каждая операционная система с задачей защиты справляется по-разному.

Windows среди рассмотренных ОС – самая уязвимая. Это объясняет распространенностью данной операционной системы. Хакеры и мошенники руководствуются тем, что у Windows самое большое число пользователей, именно поэтому они направляют все силы на разработку вредоносного программного обеспечения именно для этой системы. Поэтому, сделав выбор в пользу Windows, пользователь должен позаботиться об установке проверенной антивирусной программы и заменить стандартный системный файрвол на более эффективный.

Linux обладает безопасностью, чуть уступающей безопасность Mac OS. Все продукты семейства Unix имеют очень мало изъянов. Здесь присутствует возможность шифрования данных. «Дыры» в операционной системе устраняются за очень короткое время. Несомненно, для этого нужно обладать определенными навыками, однако, например, о всплывающих блокираторах можно забыть.

Mac OS в списке рассматриваемых операционных систем по праву занимает первое место. За ее взломы хакерские сайты назначают внушительные вознаграждения. Такая безопасность обеспечивается благодаря шифрованию (включается в настройках защиты и безопасности) и четкому распределению файлов на системные и пользовательские. Ко всему прочему новые версии Mac OS были полностью переписаны и не имеют совместимости с Mac OS Classic, ввиду чего у злоумышленников возникло немало проблем при попытке взлома данной операционной системы.

Поддерживаемое программное обеспечение

Важно характеристикой любой операционной системы является возможность установки и комфортной работы сторонних программ и утилит.

Microsoft Windows – наиболее популярная операционная система для персональных компьютеров, именно поэтому производители программного обеспечения разрабатывают версии именно под нее. Это и является причиной такого разнообразия программ и утилит для Windows. Иногда разработчики забывают включить программы в список поддерживаемых на других операционных системах. Особенно это характерно для разработчиков компьютерных игр, которые не всегда ставят целью распространение своего продукта среди пользователей Mac OS или Linux.

Mac OS, конечно уступает Windows по количеству доступных программ, однако предоставляет их в количестве, гарантирующих комфортное пользование системой. Работа с графическими программами, редактирование видео и аудио, Web-разработка и так далее, пользователь может себе позволить то, что пожелает. По умолчанию устанавливать программы можно только через AppStore, а это может оказаться проблемой для пользователей с медленным или вообще отсутствующим.

Linux постоянно расширяет список доступного софта. Самые необходимые утилиты обычно включаются в установщик и уже доступны для использования. Преимуществом данной операционной системы перед другими является бесплатное распространение большинства программ.

ЗАКЛЮЧЕНИЕ

В результате проводимого исследования были замечены некоторые особенности. Они касаются непосредственно сравнения операционных систем. Такое сравнение достаточно сложно проводить ввиду того, что рассмотренные системы достаточно отличны друг от друга.

Windows – несомненный лидер в домашнем сегменте по причине своей простоты использования, существования огромного количества разнообразного поддерживаемого программного обеспечения. Все это делает ее популярной среди начинающих пользователей.

Mac OS отлично подойдет скорее для работы, чем для развлечений. Это обусловлено тем, что Mac OS обеспечивает пользователям стабильность и безопасность. Несомненным преимуществом данной операционной системы является до мельчайших деталей продуманный и красивый интерфейс. Mac OS является производительной и идеально оптимизированной системой, что обеспечивает ее комфортное использование для решения множества разнообразных задач.

Linux постепенно набирает еще большую популярность. Причиной этому являются ее гибкость в плане настройки, доступность ввиду бесплатности и защищенность. Благодаря этому данная операционная система особенно полюбилась web-разработчикам и крупным компаниям, так как она отвечает их основным запросам.

Для того, чтобы выбрать операционную систему, необходимо сначала определиться с тем, чего конкретно вы ждете от нее. Именно определение задач, с которыми должна справляться операционная система, поможет сделать правильный выбор и наслаждаться процессом ее использования.

СПИСОК ИСПОЛЬЗУЕМЫХ ИСТОЧНИКОВ:

Функции операционных систем: сайт. – URL: http://more-it.ru/naznachenie-i-osnovnye-funkcii-operacionnyx-sistem-sostav-operacionnoj-sistemy/ (дата обращения: 20.11.2019). – Текст: электронный.

Выбор операционной системы: сайт. – URL: http://pcmr.site/guides/osguide (дата обращения: 20.11.2019). – Текст: электронный.

Определение операционной системы: сайт. – URL: https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Операционная _система/ (дата обращения: 20.11.2019). – Текст: электронный.

Сравнительные характеристики операционных систем: сайт. – URL: https://zen.yandex.ru/media/id/5b8e6d8ed8fe0200ae0d32fc/sravnenie-operacionnyh-sistem-windows-mac-os-linux-5b8f8262e8215800aa634a7f (дата обращения: 20.11.2019). – Текст: электронный.

Businesses allocate a lot of resources in making sure that their systems are secure. For example, they could have a dedicated security operations centre along with firewalls, SIEM and identity management solutions for cybersecurity. For operating systems, enterprises have anti-malware solutions installed on the devices themselves. But what about the inherent nature of a specific OS. Is Mac more secure than Windows devices from hackers? In this article, we take a look at the various factors that compare operating systems for cybersecurity posture.

So, we have three leading OSs in the world. First is Windows, the most widely used OS particularly in the enterprise space, then we have macOS, the Unix-based OS used in Apple’s computers and finally, the open-source Linux (and associated distributions) used scarcely by a select group of people for niche applications. 

Windows  

According to experts, the reason why Windows is considered less secure than competing operating systems is not because of the lack of security standards and innovation from Microsoft, but because of its large attack surface and predominant use in enterprises. The size of people that use Windows is massive, and because of this, hackers around the globe target the operating system more than the other ones. 

The majority of new malware are therefore designed for Windows specifically in mind. On the technical side, Windows is equally, if not more, secure than other operating systems. In fact, the security engineering of the Windows operating system at Microsoft has rolled out significant innovations in the last few years to tackle cybersecurity issues. It has even deployed ML models to scan for potential threats continuously and has the biggest malware signature database. 

But the persistent attacks using any potential or unpatched vulnerabilities of the operating system are leveraged by hackers for their nefarious ends. So the Windows operating system does not come with some inherent flaws that make it more vulnerable than other platforms. It’s just that malicious hackers will try to target Windows over Linux or macOS because of the higher probability of successful attacks, just because of the attack surface and the number of users.

Microsoft has also taken a very proactive stance of rolling out regular Windows updates so that any vulnerabilities can be patched quickly. Windows comes with an Anti-Malware software by default which is very capable of detecting all kinds of malware with the help of things like signatures, YARA rules and reputation checks, even though it will not safeguard the organisation against more advanced attacks.

In addition to this, Windows also has a sandbox installed in its stores, which safeguards a PC from threats which other security systems may have missed. Also, Windows makes use of code signing checks, which leads to less data tampering. On a Windows device, code signing is done both at the time of installation and the first run of an application. 

macOS

Mac OS has a reputation for being secure by default. But that mostly means that it is not operating several network services out-of-the-box which can be attacked. The Apple T2 Security Chip embedded with many newer Mac models — keeps Mac OS safer than ever. Secure Enclave coprocessor in the Apple T2 chip presents the foundation for Touch ID, secure boot, FileVault, and encrypted storage capabilities. The T2 chip also presents a default tactic of obstructing the free and open-source software from loading up. macOS system security encompasses the boot-up process, software updates and the ongoing operation of the OS.

Macs face fewer viruses compared to the Microsoft Windows operating system. It’s not like macOS is free of malware and we see vulnerabilities found in the OS from time to time. PCs have been more popular, with the number of Windows operating systems connecting to the web far exceeding those of Macintosh or Linux. The result has been an influx of cyber attacks targeted at PC users and the Windows operating system. But now the times are changing, and Mac OS X’s market share is about 10%, and therefore cybercriminals are taking notice and beginning to set their sights on the Apple operating system.

System Integrity Protection (SIP) is a security feature of Apple’s macOS operating system introduced in OS X El Capitan in 2015. It consists of many mechanisms which are enforced by the kernel. This protects against modifications by processes without a particular entitlement, even when executed by the root user or a user with root privileges.

Linux

Linux is entirely open-source, unlike other operating systems, meaning one literally has thousands of people around the globe tearing apart the Linux source code on a daily basis. The open-source community looks for every single security vulnerability and then issues a security patch for it. The more people you get to look and review your code, the better. On the contrary, when you only have a select team of people (as with Windows and macOS) to review code, you’re definitely going to run into some significant issues, and you will have far more vulnerabilities than the global crowd-sourced one.

A lot of industry experts say that Linux could be safer than both Windows or macOS. Linux has advanced options to sandbox any process and the reason why some analysts and users view Linux as more secure than Windows and macOS. Linux implements various aspects of security that are intended to complement each other. Instead of looking at anti-malware or firewalls, Linux kind of recognises that permissions solve 99% of the issues in cybersecurity. 

For example, Fedora is a Linux distribution from the community-driven Fedora Project which is sponsored by Red Hat. Fedora applies Security-Enhanced Linux by default, which implements a diversity of security policies, including forced access controls, which Fedora embraced early on. Fedora renders a hardening wrapper and does security hardening for all of its packages by applying compiler features like position-independent executable (PIE).

Contrary to certain beliefs, the open-source nature of Linux helps patch security issues very quickly and spot any security flaw due to a collaborative nature. On the other hand, many add-on security measures are missing on Linux like code signing and sandboxing. Due to its free, open-source use, as well as small security support, Linux OS is not very much trusted by some. According to some organisations, open-source isn’t secure because people can get to that source code, and this is just not the right logic today. In fact, many companies use Linux operating systems like the Red Hat Enterprise Linux, which is specifically hardened for data security.

Takeaways

Worldwide just over three-quarters of desktop computers run some variant of Microsoft Windows, with Mac OS 10 a very distant second at just over 10% market share. Windows and Mac OS are very different operating systems in terms of their underlying code with modern versions of Windows-based on the Windows NT kernel and Mac OS instead based on UNIX. 

If one looks at issues of vulnerabilities in Mac, Windows or Linux or really any operating system, it’s very similar. Because building an operating system is a very hard task, and therefore, all of them have similar kinds of vulnerabilities. So technically Mac is not particularly more secure than Windows. But the bigger issue is what are attackers targeting. If an attacker is trying to target as many people as possible, they are not going to go after a smaller install base (macOS or Linux).

There isn’t anything specific about Mac OS that makes it inherently more secure. Instead, the differences between Windows vs Mac OS and Linux means that malware often has to be coded separately for each platform. So a Mac isn’t necessarily more difficult to attack or less vulnerable than a Windows PC. 

Hackers go after an OS with the biggest install base, i.e. Windows. Therefore most of the malicious software only works on a Windows system. This means that if someone is running a Mac at home, and they accidentally click on a malicious email link, the malware won’t probably run because it’s only meant to run on a Windows system. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t any macOS attacks out there, but it’s rare. So the bottom line is that yes, Macs are more secure than Windows systems, but probably not for the reasons people think they are.

The good news is that Microsoft and Apple have developed pretty comprehensive ways of securing users systems and while neither of them is by any means perfect both companies invest plenty of resources into finding and patching vulnerabilities usually in a pretty timely manner. 

Also, hackers don’t particularly target Linux due to its low usages among business users. Compared to Windows and macOS, it has the smallest market share and less than 5% of the OS market. Now, the good thing is Linux does not give its users admin access by default and therefore limits the damage that users can do by clicking on links that they could be malicious. It’s considered Linux has more people working to spot vulnerabilities in their platform, enabling them to catch any threat sooner than the rivals.  

Each OS has its own pros and cons. There are differences amongst the OSs when it comes to crucial security traits such as built-in anti-malware tools, sandboxing, system protection and codesigning. It’s up to an organisation and an individual to make an informed choice about picking a particular operating system platform which aligns better with security goals.