A computer Operating System (OS) - MAC and Windows Operating System

A computer Operating System (OS) performs a variety of tasks required by computer application applications. The operating system also offers the connectivity required to synchronize and control the computer hardware. Nevertheless, because there was no operating system on the early computers, programs required full hardware specifications to execute simple functions, as well as specialised drivers for external devices like punched paper card readers and printers. Conversely, as application programs became more complicated and hardware requirements became more stringent, the importance and necessity of operating systems became clear. This article will, therefore, investigate MAC and Windows OS as well as critically analyse their security aspects.

History of MAC and Windows

The Apple Innovation began in 1976. Back then, its products were sold locally in electronic stores. The Apple I was the first inexpensive, simple Personal Computer (PC) and after its huge success, Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs – the creators of the computer – improved the design and advanced it to Apple II – the first PC that had 16-bit processing and sound capabilities among other feature. Soon, the first floppy disk drive and expandable memory followed (Soh, 2017). This model became widely used mainly in schools, but the demand for a less expensive and user-friendly machine was growing at homes. In 1992, the Macintosh was released and revolutionised personal computers. However, it became almost obsolete due to the emergence of cheap PCs. The popularity of the MACs roared back in 1998 due to the invention of the sleek and trendy iMac. Since then, Apple has been on an upward trajectory.

The release of Windows 3.0 in 1990 has seen the downfall of the MAC in the 90s. This Windows was less expensive and user-friendly than the MAC platform. Since then, Apple has attempted to sell cheap, low-end MACs as an attempt to compete with IBM and Microsoft (Soh, 2017). The release of Windows 95 in 1995 with the Pentium processor was another threat to Apple. It was the initiation of the Macintosh Clone Program that enabled Apple to compete. The program licensed the MAC OS for use on other machines and consequently permitted Windows users to purchase the MAC OS for their PC use.

Comparison Chart for MAC and Windows

Windows

MAC (Macintosh)

Manufactured by Microsoft Inc.

Manufactured by Apple Inc.

Compared to MAC, Windows and Windows-associated hardware are cheap. It is even possible to build or assemble one.

Mac is more costly than other PCs. The cheapest MAC computer, MAC Mini Desktop, costs $499.

Windows hardware is developed by several companies: Toshiba, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, Gateway, Dell, and Acer.

All the Apple products are produced only by Apple Inc.

The gaming library available for Windows PC is inexhaustible. The gaming hardware that is tweaked explicitly for gaming performance is also available for Windows. Moreover, the graphic-cards array, as well as upgradability, favours Window-Based PC.

There are few games natively made for MAC. However, in recent years, many applications are being released for this platform. MAC has an App Store which is a hub for users to download various applications such as games.

Windows PCs are widely used both at homes and for businesses (specifically in the creative department).

The MAC PCs are also used in homes and for businesses.

Windows OS has multilingual capabilities (TransUnion, 2017).

In MAC OS, users purchase different versions. However, multiple languages are available.

The latest versions of Windows OS are Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.

The newest versions are OS X Yosemite (Version 10.10) and EI Capitan (Version 10.11).

Popular applications for Windows OS include Microsoft Office, Media Center, Media Player, Internet Explorer, VLC Media Player, Chrome Browser, and SkyDrive.

Popular applications for MAC OS include iMovie, Safari, Photo Booth, Time Machine, App Store, iBook, iTunes, Maps, Mail, Messages, FaceTime, Calendar, and Keynotes

Windows OS supports all PC files and can cooperate with other PCs on a local network. Windows can open .doc, .xls, .exe files among others. This OS is also able to run on MAC hardware with 100% compatibility.

The MAC OS only opens MAC-based files that are impossible to open on Windows. However, individual can install software that enables Windows OS to read and write these files (TransUnion, 2017).

Being the popular choice for most users and businesses, Windows has a wide range of viruses written for Windows OS and its applications (TransUnion, 2017).

Due to the infamous nature of MACs as compared to Windows PCs, there exist less written malware that target MACs. However, malicious software threats are growing like from Java.

Due to different OEMs and custom building, PCs may lack suitable drivers released for each component in every OS version. As a result, lagging and incompatibility can be experienced. At times, the OS cannot reach the anticipated performance.

With Apple having control over their hardware and software bundle as well as model updates, MAC OS operate smoothly without lagging, incompatibilities. Therefore, MAC PCs have a stable performance.

Windows require a unique activation key for each distributed package to prevent OS piracy.

MAC OS requires no activation as a means to prevent piracy. Therefore, one can reinstall it as many times as desired.

Security Features for Windows and MAC

MACs OS has a reputation for being much secure as compared to the Windows OS. Due to MAC’s low market share, malware-makers and distributors did not focus on it and only targeted the Windows platform. During the 90s to mid-2000, Windows was infested with viruses, adware, and malware which were as a result of users opening malicious email attachments, downloading compromised software and/or other malicious files from the Internet.

Currently, the scenario has shifted. The security of Windows’ and Microsoft’s Defender anti-virus application have contributed much in making Windows a safe platform. On the other hand, MAC has had its own security issues such as vulnerability in the admin log identified in November 2017. Moreover, the growing popularity of the MAC platform – specifically, in the high-value targets areas such as computer programming, has encouraged malware-makers to shift to the MAC platform.

However, the best way to keep any OS secure is by regularly updating it. MAC users are advised to download their software from MAC App Store. Running the latest software update similarly reduces this vulnerability. In MAC, Gatekeeper makes it safer to download applications by protecting the user from accidentally installing malicious software. File Vault is another software that encrypts data by encrypting the entire drive. Regardless of the OS being used, it is not advisable to download or open files from unknown sources such as email or the Internet. Furthermore, Windows recommend not to install or use third-party antivirus programs other than Microsoft Defender as these programmes may introduce new security vulnerabilities.

Advantages and Disadvantages of MAC and Windows

Both platforms have different pros and cons. Various external factors such as the software requirements and other owned devices influence the choice when deciding which OS one should use. For instance, when one has a Windows phone or an Xbox One, it is advisable to use Windows OS. On the other hand, owning an iPad, or an Apple TV will require a MAC. However, when using a mixed environment, both OSs readily share data across devices, and it is relatively easy to access Windows file form a MAC PC and vice versa. The advantages and disadvantages of each platform range from software and hardware.

Mac Pros and Windows Cons

First, MAC has a BootCamp – a built-in program that permits the installation of other OSs in addition to OS X. Therefore, setting a dual boot system is much easy as compared to Windows. The switching process is also extremely easy. Second, MAC functions well with Apple products with regards to software. MAC OS has its set of software such as iCloud, Handoff, Find My iPhone, iCloud Photo Library, and iCloud Drive, among others. Microsoft has attempted to formulate these services, but only partially succeeded to do it.

Third, Apple has an excellent customer support, exclusive Apple Stores and AppleCare warranty programs where one can take the MAC device for repair, training, and/or other issues. Moreover, even though MAC products are more expensive than PCs, their resale value is far much better as compared to PCs. Further, although Macs can be affected by malware and viruses, the proportion of threat in comparison with Windows is significantly less due to the largeness of Windows base. Macs tend to be more innovative in features and design. For instance, Macs include multi-touch trackpads, Thunderbolt, force touch, and USB Type C ports among others. Finally, MAC can read FAT and NTFS formatted hard drives while for Windows it is impossible to read MAC formatted drives without the use of third-party software.

Windows Pros and MAC Cons

First, Window and its products are more configurable and easily upgradable. MAC only permits the upgrade of Hard Drive or RAM. Purchasing a PC allows the user to have more option for configuration including displays, memory, processor, ports, case, and hard drives among others. Second, Windows hardware is manufactured by various companies, which result in a vast selection of devices with ranging prices. Apple only provides a few choices with fixed rates. For instance, Apple has just one type of desktop device provided to customers.

Third, when it comes to gaming, Windows is the absolute best option. MAC lacks strong graphic-cards, especially in high-end machines such as MAC Pro. Further, Windows platform has a lot of software available for its users. Despite the fact that there exists a corresponding MAC programme for each Windows application, these equivalents, as compared to Windows, are not of such quality.

Moreover, Windows-based computers possess an excellent backward compatibility. For instance, a six-year-old PC is able run Windows 10 smoothly with no issues. On the other hand, a similar MAC may run the latest version of OS X but with a great number the features lacking and also failing to run efficiently. Lastly, Windows-based PCs have a lot of accessories, and due to existence of these options, the accessories are usually inexpensive.

MAC and Microsoft Security Comparison

Login Security

Apple has not integrated any biometric technology into its computers and only in its latest iPhone. On the other hand, Microsoft has this feature in its PCs. With the required hardware, Windows can give its users the ability to login using fingerprint scanners or webcam.

Exposure to Malware

MAC computers are said to be less exposed to viruses as compared to Windows computers. Microsoft comprises approximately 90% of the market portion worldwide, and thus it is a more prominent target for the malware developer (Diffen.com, 2017). Nevertheless, this assertion does not mean that Microsoft builds its products with less security feature. There is nothing inbuilt that makes MAC more resistance to viruses.

Encryption

When a computer is stolen or the drive is removed without encryption being done, the information in the computer is vulnerable. The File Vault software enables MAC computers to have full disk encryption. Microsoft and especially Windows 10 have a similar program known as BitLocker (Diffen.com, 2017). However, this feature is not available on Windows 10 Home edition and therefore the Pro edition is required to enable the feature.

Anti-Virus Protection

When a malware makes it ways on to Window based computers, the user can utilise the Microsoft’s built-in antivirus software – Windows Defender. On the other hand, MAC computers do not come with in-built anti-virus, and thus in case of a virus attack, one can install an anti‑virus program. However, the absence of built-in antivirus does not suggest that MAC has weak defences against viruses. Proper anti-virus software can shield the penetration of viruses once installed.

Software Blocking

Even though MAC lacks an installed anti-virus protection, it uses a program to keep malicious software away from its functions – Gatekeeper. This utility is inbuilt into the operating system and automatically blocks software installation that does not come from a licensed dealer or developer. The utility also prevents program modification. Windows users similarly have access to such a utility referred to as Device Guard (Diffen.com, 2017). However, this programme calls for a trained administrator on a computer network.

User Friendliness of MAC and Windows

The user-friendliness of an OS is related directed to the experience of a user. An operating system will attract a customer depending on the user’s requirements. For instance, the MAC computers are utilised in the creative professional market, including desktop publishing, audio editing, video editing, and journalism. MAC has also penetrated into the scientific and educative research fields. A majority of application and website developers tend to use MAC, and thus it is much user-friendly in the programming industry (Roer, 2017). Windows-based computers are also standard in audio and video editing as well as used for research purpose. However, these PCs are mainly found in offices and homes. Windows are game friendly due to their excellent graphics features. Moreover, both Windows and Macs can share peripherals when connected via Bluetooth, USB, or FireWire. Most software for Windows and Mac utilise a similar file format, and thus it is simple to exchange documents between these platforms.

Security Vulnerability of Both OS

Similar to Windows, hackers have set their sight on the Apple’s OS X. According to latest review on MAC, two new vulnerabilities have been identified, which can provide hackers with root access to the OS (Symantec Security Response, 2017). However, these weaknesses require the computer victim to install an application for the attack to be successful. In Windows, networks have a potential security risk which includes files and sharing permission. Lack of encryption in drives, lack of personal firewall protection and malware protection, missing patches for Windows and third-party programs, and weak Windows security policies make the OS vulnerable as well.

References

Diffen.com. (2017). Mac vs PC - Difference and comparison. [Online] Available at: https://www.diffen.com/difference/Mac_vs_PC [Accessed 28/12/2017].

Roer, K. (2017). A year of security culture in review. Infosecurity Magazine. [Online] Available at: https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/blogs/security-culture-review/ [Accessed 28/12/2017].

Soh, V. (2017). MAC vs. Windows: the history of OS competition. Singapore Blog, Singapore Community - Vodien. [Online] Available at: https://www.vodien.com/blog/technology/mac-vs-windows-the-history-of-os-competition.php [Accessed 28/12/2017].

Symantec Security Response. (2017). New Mac OS X vulnerability could provide attackers with root access. [Online] Available at: https://www.symantec.com/connect/blogs/new-mac-os-x-vulnerability-could-provide-attackers-root-access [Accessed 28/12/2017].

TransUnion. (2017). Windows-based PC vs. MAC security. [Online] Available at: https://www.transunion.com/blog/identity-protection/5-differences-windows-based-pcs-vs-mac-security [Accessed 28/12/2017].