Linux security levels and comparisons to Windows

When it comes to security levels, Windows servers tend to be exceeded by Linux servers. This is due to a more secure and manageable environment being provided with Linux. There is also significantly more functionality in terms of security integration and management.

Linux systems are rarely the target of attacks, even though software bugs are not unique to any one product. These attacks tend to be limited in scope because user accounts and server applications do not (and should not) have access to the facilities viruses used to infect systems and destroy data.

Some comparisons between Linux and Windows are listed below:

• Core Platform - Linux code is subject to public scrutiny, it has extremely powerful facilities, and it is possible to entirely disable loadable modules. Windows has a lack of extensibility in its security architecture in comparison, and it has a troubling reliance on security through obscurity.
• Application stack – There is a strong similarity between Linux and Windows when it comes to security best practices, no matter which operating system is selected. There is a resistance with Linux to traditional boot sector and other viruses that attack system level devices.
• Network Layer – The firewalling facilities in Linux exceed those in the Windows 2003 Server, but these are very unlikely to be used as extensively in desktop systems.
• Patch Management – Companies have experienced high clean up costs due to dealing with viruses, therefore Windows requires substantial improvements. Linux works better on desktops, because the ancillary services such as web serving that are primary targets for Linux attacks are generally deployed only on servers.
• Deployment and Management – In terms of deployment and security management, Linux is an excellent choice. This is because there are a huge number in each area. Windows Server 2003 can sometimes give administrators a false sense of security.
• Standards compliance – Standards compliance is a Linux server’s primary development model, and new features and fundamental changes are made on a regular basis solely to support new standards. A wide range of standards is supported by Windows, but Microsoft has historically and continues to use its Embrace and Extend strategy to increase customer lock-in on its platform.

Summary of Linux and Windows security

When it comes to security, Linux tends to be more stable and secure than Windows. The majority of Microsoft Windows patches still commonly require a reboot during installation, which causes system downtime and lost productivity.

In the most critical areas of security, Linux servers excel, while promising to soon match or exceed Windows in the few areas where it is behind.

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