When the term Linux is mentioned, the initial thought that may arise is of a command-filled terminal. While this is accurate for Linux servers, it does not encompass the entirety of the operating system. In recent times, an increasing number of individuals are adopting Linux as their operating system. Although its market share is not as substantial as that of Windows, many new users are drawn to Linux for its enhanced security and stability. This article aims to outline the primary reasons that contribute to Linux's superior security compared to Windows and to encourage a transition to Linux where feasible.

In terms of security, servers are of utmost concern. Internet servers handle and transmit critical data, making them vulnerable to breaches. The image above illustrates the increasing prevalence of Unix operating systems among servers, predominantly driven by Linux. It may also be noteworthy that Microsoft utilizes Linux for its cloud and various services. However, it is essential to recognize that while security contributes to this market distinction, other factors such as Linux's free and open-source nature, along with its superior stability compared to Windows, also play significant roles.

So why is Linux More Secure Than Windows?

User Permissions

Upon installation of Windows, an administrator account is established, granting you comprehensive access to the operating system through the convenient 'Run as administrator' feature. In contrast, Linux does not grant such permissions by default; it allows unrestricted use of your home directory but requires the root password for any system-level operations. Consequently, while Windows can achieve a level of security comparable to Linux with proper configuration, the default user permission management in Windows has been considered flawed and potentially hazardous for decades. In Windows, users can effortlessly execute programs with administrative privileges, whereas in Linux, the requirement to input the root password for such actions serves as a safeguard, alerting users when a script or application attempts to perform system-wide changes.

Software installation

In order to install software on Windows, users typically access the internet to search for an EXE or MSI file, which they then download and install. This practice poses a significant security risk, as the trustworthiness of the source is often uncertain.

Conversely, Linux employs package managers, which are tools that facilitate the downloading of necessary programs from reliable sources known as repositories. These repositories are generally overseen by the community, and the packages undergo a lengthy verification process before acceptance. This system simplifies the user experience, eliminating the need for internet searches or file downloads; users merely need to input a straightforward command.

Additionally, numerous graphical user interface (GUI) applications exist on Linux that serve as an interface for the package manager, enabling users to browse and install software in a more user-friendly manner. Microsoft attempted to address this issue by launching the Windows Store; however, it has not gained widespread usage, as Windows users have become accustomed to their previous methods. Furthermore, the Windows Store is often criticized for its sluggish performance and limited application offerings.

Open Source

Linux is an open-source operating system, meaning its source code is accessible for public viewing and modification. This allows individuals to create their own Linux distributions and even commercialize them without restriction. Initially, this may seem like a security vulnerability, as malicious actors could examine the code. However, the advantages significantly surpass the potential risks. A vast number of developers and researchers globally continuously identify bugs and vulnerabilities, submitting patches to the Linux source code almost daily, thereby enhancing its safety and security over time.

In contrast, Windows is proprietary software owned by Microsoft. Regardless of the number of skilled developers employed by Microsoft, the identification of vulnerabilities will never occur as swiftly as in Linux, which benefits from a large community of contributors.

Furthermore, unlike Windows, Linux distributions advocate for open-source software, meaning that the majority of applications available on Linux are open source and share similar advantages.

Updates

In the Windows operating system, automatic updates are limited to the system itself and a select few Microsoft applications. Typically, it is the responsibility of software developers to provide updates, although some fail to do so entirely. This situation results in users having outdated applications on their systems, which poses significant security risks due to the presence of vulnerabilities that can be easily exploited. In contrast, Linux facilitates the acquisition of updates and security patches not only for the operating system but also for applications, requiring merely one or two commands, thanks to its package managers. Additionally, a notable advantage of Linux is that during updates, the need to restart the computer arises only 1% of the time, even when updating the system.

Security through obscurity

Although Linux powers the majority of servers globally, its desktop user base remains significantly lower than that of Windows, accounting for merely 2%.

Although malware and viruses that affect Linux do exist, they are primarily aimed at web servers and network devices rather than Linux desktop systems. In contrast, Windows boasts a substantial desktop user base of approximately 76%, making it an attractive target for both skilled hackers and less experienced individuals, such as script kiddies and crackers, who utilize various tools to exploit vulnerabilities in Windows.

Final Words

Ultimately, user behavior is the most significant factor. Windows can achieve a level of security comparable to Linux if managed by a knowledgeable user who prioritizes security measures. In my view, Linux surpasses Windows primarily because it minimizes the likelihood of user error by providing robust security options by default and encouraging proper practices. Microsoft has much to gain from Linux's approach. As the creators of the most widely used desktop operating system globally, they ought to enhance their default security settings to address contemporary threats.

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