Guardian Digital Newsletter

Dave Wreski, CEO of Guardian Digital, was recently interviewed by LinuxInsider editor Anne Zeigler regarding the state of Linux security and its effect on enterprise adoption.

As an open source and Linux enthusiast it is wonderful to sit back and watch Linux quickly gaining popularity among some of the world’s most influential corporations and government agencies. In fact, the client list here at Guardian Digital has grown to include quite a few high-powered entities in recent years. However, as I read of comparable organizations still remaining skeptical on the benefits of Linux, I feel disheartened. Pinpointing reasons including steep learning curve, weak technical support, and minimal program choices, closed-source loyalists chose to stick with proprietary solutions. What they don’t see is that as Linux becomes more accepted in mainstream culture, many of those perceived disadvantages have transcended into nothing more then information technology myths. Here are a few I have come across recently:

Myth #1-No Solid Technical Support
Although this may have been true at one time, Linux developers realized that to build a market for their product they could not just simply put it on the store shelves. They had to prove the stability of their company and provide professional-grade technical support to successfully solicit and maintain a steady stream of customers. To date, most established Linux companies have support structures and expert technical support teams designed to provide equal, if not better, customer value then those of proprietary vendors.

Myth #2-Steep Learning Curve
A steep learning curve was also an obstacle to Linux adoption in the early years. Since nearly all users have at one time or another primarily used Windows systems, a switch to a Linux-based operating system represented a dramatic change. While there is one Windows operating system with a universal interface, there are hundreds of Linux operating systems each with a separate user interface. Consequently each Linux application implemented would require the time and patience to learn and become accustom to a new interface. The most popular Linux vendors, however, have taken steps to minimize this curve by providing users with simplified user interfaces some of which even attempt mirror that of Windows. The learning curve of using Linux has definitely been curtailed as user-friendliness continues to increase.

Myth #3-Limited Software Choices
As Linux gains popularity and backing of major corporations, nearly all software applications are designed to support both Windows and Linux environments. With Linux market share growing at such a rapid rate, software developers are becoming aware of the purchasing power of Linux users and are satisfying their needs for choice by providing innumerable software applications comparable to those available for the Windows operating system.

As some of the alleged Linux pitfalls are being observed as more fiction then fact, the number of Linux and open source users is growing dramatically. As we continue to develop the most technologically advanced user-friendly applications and enterprise-grade support services, winning over the skeptics will continue to become a less daunting task.

Guardian Digital Mailbag

Q. How can I protect my small business network?

A. Small businesses have to worry about Internet security just as much if not more then large enterprises. Not paying attention to the security of your small business network is a fatal mistake and could result in the end of your business. Here are some quick security tips to keep your small business network secure and productive:

Install and Update Anti-virus Software.
Anti-virus software protects your network from malicious code found in emails and downloaded from the Internet. It has the ability to scan your system for such code and delete or cleanse the infected file. Since new viruses are released on a monthly basis keeping your software updated is the only way to guarantee consistent protection.

Download Operating System Updates.
Your OS vendor will regularly release updates some of which will be enhanced security features or patches to known vulnerabilities. Pay attention to these updates and download them as soon as they become available.

Set up an Internet firewall.
A firewall is your first line of defense against intruders and unlawful activity. They screen all and block unauthorized traffic coming into your network from the Internet.

Educate Employees on Network Security.
Not all computer issues are caused by faceless hackers. Many problems originate from inside the business. Protect sensitive areas of your network with security applications and password protections. Also, make sure that all your employees now how to securely utilize email. Since many computer viruses are unleashed by someone inadvertently opening a seemingly harmless email, let them know that under no circumstances should they ever open suspicious or unsolicited email and attachments. It may be a good idea to incorporate written security policies in your corporate guidelines.

Secure Wireless Networks.
Because small business owners and employees are always on the go, wireless networks are a popular option. They are also most vulnerable to hackers. If your organization uses wireless networks, be sure use encryption technologies.

The Behind the Shield editors encourage their readers to submit questions. The most frequently asked questions will appear in future issues. We look forward to answering all your inquiries! Email us at info@guardiandigital.com