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What is the Difference Between Windows and Linux?

 

 

An introductory guide to Operating Systems and Distributions for Cybersecurity Learners

 

When stepping into cybersecurity, understanding the operating systems you are working in and may encounter is key. Two of the most common are Windows and Linux. Linux can then be broken down into different Distributions - or variations. They both run on just about any computer, but they do it in very different ways - and those differences matter when it comes to security and performing security analyst functions.

 

What is Windows?

 

Windows is a commercial Operating System developed by Microsoft. It's the default on most personal and business computers, known for its Graphical User Interface (GUI) and broad software compatibility.  

 

Common Uses for Windows:

 

• Home Desktop use or Home Gaming Use 
• Windows Server in Enterprise Environments 
• Small-Medium Business or Enterprise workstations 

 

Common Security Considerations:

 

• Frequently targeted for Malware and Ransomware due to their popularity and business MarketShare. 
• Default user permissions can not only be overly permissive and controlling, but also easily exploitable, requiring hardening. 
• Patch Management is critical - in 2024 there were over 500 vulnerabilities reported for windows 10.
• Due to the high popularity and common business and enterprise use, zero-day exploits and privilege escalation flaws are common threats and common vectors. 

What is Linux?

Linux is an open-source Operating System Family. It's modular and highly customizable, and widely used in servers, cloud infrastructure and cybersecurity labs. Developers can take the base of Linux and develop their own Distributuion to better suite their need or use case. 

 

Common Linux Distributions:

 

• Ubuntu and Debian are for general use.

• Kali Linux, Kali Purple or Parrot for Security Functions.

• CentOS, RHEL, or Alpine as a server enviornment.

 

Common Security Considerations:

 

• In general, there are fewer default services running, which reduces the attack surface.
• By default, ROOT Access is tighly controlled, however Linux in general can be easier to misconfigure, exposing that root user.
• Not as commonly fixated on by threat actors, due to the uncommon use in small-medium businesses and enterprises.
• Patching can be harder than on Windows, but helped to retain the hardened system model.

 

Common Linux Distributions in Cybersecurity

Each Linux Distributuion has its own flavor or purpose. Typically, they came prepackaged with dozens or hundreds of different tools to match its flavor. Ultimately, you can use whichever Distributuion you want, for whatever tasks you want, but having these distributions can make some things easier when they're prepackaged.

 

Kali Linux

Most oftenly referred to as the penetration testers distribution.

 

• Kali Linux comes with over 600 pre-installed tools, organized for scanning, exploitation, persistence, and post exploitation. 
• Tools like Metasploit, MSFVenom, Wireshark and Nmap preinstalled.
• Kali Linux NetHunter can be configured with a custom kernel for packet injection support.

 

Common Security Considerations:

 

• Runs with super user or root as default, which if not reconfigured can be a risk.
• It's a large ethical hacker or penetration testers toolbox, making it less than ideal for daily use as a workstation.
• Regular updates from the community backing it helps to mitigate risks and keep the system hardened.

 

Parrot OS

A bit of a hidden gem, with a strong backing in privacy and digital forensics, while maintaining a strong focus in security.

 

• Has a Home (privacy based) ediiton, and a Security (full penetration testing suite) edition.
• Preinstalled tools consist of a cryptography, secure communications and forensic analysis.
• Lightweight and optimzed for performance

 

Common Security Considerations:

 

• Includes many third party tools, which may carry vulnerabilities.
• Misconfigurations and over customization can weaken the system from its hardened defaults.
• Carries strong privacy tools like Tor and AnonSurf to help reduce digital footprints.

 

Ubuntu

General purpose Linux Distribution with wide adoption for many use cases.

 

• Very user friendly interface, long term support versions available.
• Compatible with most common used cybersecurity tools.
• Often used as a base OS for secure development environments.

 

Common Security Considerations:

 

• Vulnerabilities in the Linux kernel and packages like liblockdev have affected Ubuntu in the past.
• Being the most common Linux Distribution, it's the most targeted, increasing the importance of keeping up to date on patches.
• Canonical provides regular security updates and CVE Tracking.

 

Final Thoughts

There are many different types of Operating Systems out there, all with their own unique purpose and design. Understanding what each one is built for, as well as what it might expose you to, is foundational to cybersecurity. Windows is often the battleground, which Linux is the lab. Both require attention when being used, and a little bit of effort to perform basic hardening to stay safe. 

 

Key Takeaways

• Windows is the default OS for many organizations but is also a frequent target in cyberattacks due to its popularity.
• Linux offers flexibility and control, making it the go-to choice for many cybersecurity professionals.
• Kali Linux is tailored for offensive security — packed with tools for ethical hacking and red teaming.
• Parrot OS balances offensive and defensive capabilities while emphasizing privacy and secure communications.
• Ubuntu is a general-purpose, stable Linux distro often used in secure development or training environments.
• No OS is “bulletproof” — regular updates, proper configurations, and understanding your tools are critical.