How Do You Choose Your Operating System for Better Computer and Privacy Security?

Maintaining the security of your computer can be challenging task. Hackers often seem to be one step ahead of computer users, even those who are following the best security practices. However, securing your computer is essential to protecting your privacy, reducing the risk of identity theft, and preventing hackers from taking over your computer.

The best computer security practices require you to take a multi-pronged approach. They involve protecting your sensitive information by preventing, detecting, and responding to a wide variety of attacks.





How do you choose your operating system then?

Your computer's operating system is the main program on your computer. It performs a variety of functions, including determining what types of software you can install, coordinating the applications running on the computer at any given time, and allowing your software applications (web browsers, word processors, and email clients) to operate. When you buy a computer, you are usually also choosing a specific operating system.

Manufacturers typically ship computers with a particular operating system. Most PCs ship with the latest version of the Windows operating system. The current Windows operating system is Windows 10. Apple computers use the Mac OS X.

Windows operating systems traditionally have been targeted with malware more often than other operating systems. This may be due to the larger base of Windows installations, which makes it a more attractive target. However, Apple's Mac OS X is definitely not immune to security flaws. In fact, as more consumers purchase Apple products, malware makers have begun to target Mac OS X.

Some computer security professionals consider Linux and other lesser known operating systems to be the most secure, primarily because they tend not to be targeted. For those interested in trying out the Linux operating system, many recommend Ubuntu, a free, open-source Linux distribution.

No matter which operating system you use, it's important that you update it regularly. Windows operating systems are typically updated at least monthly, typically on so-called "Patch Tuesday." Other operating systems may not be updated quite as frequently or on a regular schedule. It's best to set your operating system to update automatically. The method for doing so will vary depending upon your particular operating system.

If your computer uses Windows XP as the operating system, it's very important to be aware that Microsoft support for Windows XP ended on April 8, 2014. This means that you no longer receive software updates from Windows Update, including security updates that can help protect your computer from harmful viruses and malware.