Linux and Cybersecurity

The cybersecurity begins with users’ operating systems. In this area, there are essentially two main approaches: proprietary systems (Windows, macOS) and open-source systems (Linux).

In proprietary systems, the software code is closed, and full access to it is available only to the companies that created the system (Microsoft, Apple). In contrast, Linux has open code that can be reviewed by anyone. At first glance, closed systems may appear to be more secure; however, in practice, this is not the case.

Although users of closed proprietary systems cannot see the source code, potential attackers are often able to analyze it using various methods. In such systems, the authority to identify and fix vulnerabilities largely rests solely with the vendor companies. In addition, there are serious allegations that these companies collect user data and use it for commercial purposes. As a result, the closed nature of proprietary systems does not provide users with a clear security advantage; instead, it makes them dependent on Microsoft or Apple for addressing discovered vulnerabilities and creates the risk that personal data may fall under the control of those companies.

Linux, on the other hand, offers a different approach. As an open-source system, it has no single owner, and users collectively and continuously improve it. Because the source code is open, vulnerabilities are identified more quickly and addressed in a timely manner. Most importantly, users do not have to worry about their data being collected and used without oversight by a particular company. Another key advantage of Linux is that government institutions and companies can freely modify the system according to their specific needs. For this reason, many developed countries and large organizations build their own customized operating systems based on Linux.

One of the first and most important steps in cybersecurity is eliminating dependence on proprietary operating system source code. From this perspective, the gradual abandonment of operating systems owned by foreign companies within government institutions and the development of nationally adapted operating systems based on Linux are of strategic importance.

The Daily Baku editorial team