Sunday, June 6, 2010

Google bans Windows over security concerns

Security concerns prompt Google to ban Windows OS

Google's corporate offices have officially given Windows operating system machines the boot. Google's Chrome OS is a part of this lead-up, though the security problems with Windows are a major part of this decision. Google employees will only be allowed to use Windows with special permission.

Resource for this article: Google bans Windows over security concerns

The official Windows Google stance

Flexibility has been the name of the game in Google operating systems. When a new employee starts at Google, they’re given an option of which operating system they want to use. To use Windows, though, Google employees now must get approval from the CIO. Google's Chrome OS is being offered as an option. Google decided to make this change following the hacking of Google’s China channels.

Windows security concerns cited by Google

About 8 of each 10 computers use Windows – it can be found everywhere from office management to credit counseling. The fact Windows is so popular makes it a very popular target for viruses, worms, and more. At Google, the security concerns surrounding Windows have been the reason for a general move to Mac and Linux computer systems. Those that develop Google programs – the dedicated developers that design the products – work on a cloud computing system rather than hardware-based system.

Is this Google Windows move a publicity stunt?

A few observers have suggested that Google kicking Windows out of its offices is more about publicity than security. Google has been creating a Chrome OS, a competitor to the Windows operating system. Chrome OS could be based on the Google Chrome web browser. The Google Chrome OS is an open-source operating system — an operating system that could be edited and improved by any user. Some may think an open-source programmed operating system may be less secure, but that has not proven true. Google offices won't be using Windows anymore, but this is not just because Google is developing a competitor.



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