Are Linux and Mac Computers Safe From Viruses?

Are Linux and Mac computers really safer or is this just a rumour to encourage people to buy something other than the personal computer? Unfortunately this is an often misunderstood concept among would be computer buyers. Mac and Linux are not necessarily safer they are just less popular. Below I'll outline the top 5 reasons why Windows will continue to be targeted.

1. There is a very high familiarity with the Microsoft Windows operating system. Continued familiarity with this product means that viruses will continue to be created for computers with this software in place.

2. Linux still isn't popular enough to warrant creating a virus. Linux is not for the faint of heart either. Most Linux distributions are beautifully stable and easy to customize and in many cases free to use. However, this operating system still attracts the more advanced computer user.

3. Mac has gained in popularity in the last couple of years however the vast majority of computers out there still run the Microsoft Windows operating system. It seems unlikely a virus will be created for this operating system in the near future. However be wary of viruses designed for the iPad and the iPhone. The number of people with these devices has risen dramatically and therefore the likelihood of a virus being created increases as well. These devices may be small but they are just as susceptible as the full sized desktop computer.

4. Remember, the goal behind spreading viruses is to do as much damage as possible. With estimates that over 92%* of computers were still running Windows in 2011, it's a safe bet that Windows will continue to be targeted for many years to come.

5. Lastly, Microsoft's security loopholes, bugs and frequent fixes are well known and well talked about. It is common knowledge that Microsoft releases weekly patches to fix security issues in its operating system. If you can figure out what was fixed chances are you can figure out what was broken. Keeping your computer updated is critically important for this reason. Would be virus makers target computers that haven't been updated in a while because it's easy to find the holes.

Having said all of this it is still important for Mac and Linux users to have anti-virus software on their computers and use some sort of a firewall to prevent unwanted access. Windows PC's are more likely to be targeted but that doesn't guarantee that other computers won't be targeted. Don't wait for the first Mac virus to circulate and infect your computer before you put in an anti-virus program. All of the major anti-virus software makers have Mac versions. Please download and use them. Remember, unlikely doesn't mean impossible.

Offering computer workshops and seminars for individuals and businesses.
http://www.laurabungarz.ca
*Operating system statistics available at: Wikipedia

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_L_Bungarz