Is Virus Vulnerability Merely a Result of Popularity?
Linked by David Adams on Mon 6th Oct 2003 19:34 UTC
Bugs & Viruses It's an oft-repeated maxim that one of the reasons that Windows operating systems are plagued by so many viruses, worms, and security exploits is because they are so popular. Extrapolating on this, many have remarked that if Linux, MacOS, or other OSes become more popular, they will attract the attention of virus writers. That may be true, but the increased attention will not necessarily yield the same quantity of viruses and other exploits, says a Register article. Update: Rebuttal article.
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Re: @drsmithy
by Interfacer on Tue 7th Oct 2003 10:17 UTC

"Tell me what you can't do as an Administrator in Windows (well, except recompile your kernel, or course) that you can as root. Real important stuff, you know, something that would actually make your point relevant. "

deleting your kernel image for one thing. relevant enough?

i have developed real time kernel process on linux.
with windows you can indeed shoot yourself in the foot with an admin account.
with linux you can do the same, except you use an atomic bomb instead of a gun.

kind regards,
Int