- Jordan Albaladejo
MacOS vs Windows - Security in Mind
Choosing the right operating system for business security can be a challenging task. While many people believe that Apple Macs are more secure than Windows PCs, this belief is outdated and does not consider the current landscape of cybersecurity threats. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between the two operating systems and determine which is a more secure choice for businesses in today's IT world, in our opinion.
In the past, Macs were considered more secure due to their unique Unix/Linux-based architecture and smaller market share, making them less of a target for cybercriminals. However, with the increasing adoption of Macs in consumer and commercial environments, they have become increasingly targeted by malware and other cyber-attacks. While Macs still offer some built-in security features, they are not immune to today's security threats.
See further articles regarding recent MacOS threats:
- macOS malware: myth vs. reality – Week in security with Tony Anscombe | WeLiveSecurity
Microsoft Windows has been long considered less secure due to its wider adoption and earlier entry into the market. However, Microsoft has made significant improvements to Windows security and management, making it a much more secure choice than it was a decade ago. One area where Windows excels is its integration with Microsoft's cloud-based identity and access management service, Azure Active Directory, and directly integrated device management. This integration allows businesses to better manage their users and devices and ensure that only authorised users have access to sensitive data.
In terms of manageability and flexibility, Windows is more management-oriented and caters for the IT management sector and business environment. Windows is more flexible with third-party Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) solutions and has direct integration with Intel's vPro line up, providing hardware-based security features to combat ransomware, along with further baked-in manageability features. On the other hand, Apple provides their Mobile Device Management (MDM) platform placing restrictions on how IT teams can choose to manage the MacOS systems, making it difficult to manage and secure Mac devices outside of Apple’s provided solution.
Another reason why Windows is a more secure choice for businesses is Microsoft's vast ecosystem of business applications, EDR solution, and business manageability tools. Windows allows for a much greater depth and control when dealing with today's threat landscape, by building in the integration throughout their entire stack, making the configuration and management of their systems a much more seamless and unified experience.
In conclusion, while both Apple Mac and Windows offer some security features, Windows is our choice for the more secure choice for businesses in today's IT world. Microsoft's focus on improving Windows security and management, integration with Azure Active Directory, directly integrated device management, as well as Microsoft’s business suite of apps with their integration and flexible approach to third-party solutions, makes it our preferred option for businesses looking to enhance their security posture.
Read more about Intel vPro Platform below:
- What Is the Intel vPro® Platform?
Brief overview table of comparisons we at Ingest services have made:
Apple MacOS | ​Microsoft Windows | Services Available |
Yes | Yes | Built-in Backup |
Yes | Yes | Device Encryption |
No (TimeMachine similar) | Yes | VSS Snapshot |
Partially, difficult to configure, not all encompassing | Yes, Native | Active Directory Support |
No - Different architecture | Yes | Intel vPro Support |
Partially with less support | Yes, Native | 365 Office Applications Support |
Yes, difficult to gain full access rights, at times dependant on Apple MDM platform integration | Yes | Third-Party RMM Support |
No, generally afterthought | Yes | Wide security software support |
No | Yes, leveraging native VSS | Support for SentienelOne ransomware rollback feature |
Mostly direct to Apple only available solution | Yes, widely supported by first and third-party vendors | Repairability |
Very restrictive OS | Very flexible OS native support | ​Supported flexibility |
See article about how Apple wants more Macs in Business here:
Learn more about how we can assist your business with - Managed IT Security Services