Securing Windows and Unix/Linux Servers
Floyd E. Street
DeVry University

Securing Windows and Unix/Linux Servers

With the constant threat of internet hackers on the rise, Companies must pay close attention to secure their computer networks from would be intruders. In order to maintain the highest level of security within the os servers you must first have knowledge of the vulnerabilities of the running operating system. It is those vulnerabilities in the system that the intruders will be searching your network for. The known shortcomings and vulnerabilities of Windows and Unix/Linux servers have dysfunctions that can be exploited to gain access to a company’s private information. This information in the wrong hands could cost an organization millions of dollars in security damages. One of the ways to prevent this type security breech is to make sure that your Windows and Unix/Linux servers has the right up dated patches for these operating systems. According to, (Conklin, W. A.2009) “One of the most effective measures security professionals can take to address attacks on their computer systems and networks is to ensure that all software is up-to-date in terms of vendor-released patches. Many of the outbreaks of viruses and worms would have been much less severe if everybody had applied security updates and patches when they were released.”
Ignoring the update prompts on your system is not a wise thing to do. New vulnerabilities in operating systems are discovered every day.

According to, Goodrich, R. (n.d) “Software patches serve a very important role beyond annoying computer users. Their intended purpose is to quickly push out fixes to bugs that may be occurring and create a safe computer environment. When you browse the internet, your computer is at the mercy of its current protective measures. Viruses, malware and rootkits are always on the search for security holes to exploit and gain entry to your personal data. While the best antivirus software would prevent this from ever happening, in order to accomplish such a goal you need to perform recommended updates.”
When securing Windows and Unix/Linux servers it is essential that you have your anti-virus software set to download and install updates automatically. This way you don’t have to worry about forgetting to install updates.
There are always new developments in Windows and Unix/Linux OS but, if handled with the proper care the security of that network can remain free of intruders and with stand any security attacks.

Reference Page

Principles of Computer Security, CompTIA Security+ and Beyond 2nd Edition (Conklin, W. A.2009) Gregory White, Dwayne Williams and Roger Davis Retrieved from page 7

Goodrich, R.(n.d). PC Security and the Importance of Patch Updates. Retrieved from http://anti-virus-software-review.toptenreviews.com/pc-security-and-the-importance-of-patch-updates.html