Home Technology Maya OS to Replace Microsoft Windows on Defence Ministry Computers Amid Rising Cyber Threats: Details

Maya OS to Replace Microsoft Windows on Defence Ministry Computers Amid Rising Cyber Threats: Details

A recent report suggests that Maya OS is set to replace Windows as the operating system on the computers used by the Defence Ministry. In contrast to Microsoft’s proprietary operating system, the Ministry of Defence has opted for a Linux-based OS, specifically based on the popular Ubuntu distribution. Over a period of six months, government agencies developed this OS in response to the increasing cybersecurity threats. Notably, Maya OS is equipped with built-in malware protection for computers connected to the Internet.

According to a news article by The Hindu, the Ministry of Defence has already started the process of replacing Internet-connected computers with Maya OS. This OS is based on the open-source Linux distribution Ubuntu, which is maintained by the British firm Canonical. Unlike other Linux-based distros, Maya OS has an interface that closely resembles Microsoft Windows, potentially facilitating the transition.

A government official mentioned in the report that Maya OS will be installed on all Ministry of Defence computers connected to the Internet in the South Block before August 15, which is Independence Day. While the operating system is yet to be installed on computers operated by the three defence services, it has been approved by the Navy. The Air Force and Army are currently evaluating the operating system, as stated by the official.

The decision to replace Microsoft’s Windows operating system was made in response to the rising number of ransomware and malware attacks across the country. In order to ensure protection for Internet-connected computers, Maya OS will feature a system called Chakravyuh, capable of detecting malware and safeguarding devices. The government agencies diligently worked on the development of Maya OS for a span of six months.

It is important to note that traditional Linux-based operating systems like Ubuntu are not inherently more secure than Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS. In fact, many popular Linux-based operating systems offer limited sandboxing compared to these other operating systems. However, certain distributions, such as Qubes OS, have been designed to offer reasonably secure support for secure isolation and compartmentalization of software on computers.

Meanwhile, Maya OS is not the first locally developed operating system. Bharat Operating System Solutions (BOSS) is another Linux-based OS that has been under development for over 16 years. BOSS has previously been tested by the Army and was developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and the National Resource Centre for Free and Open Source Software (NRCFOSS). The latest version of BOSS, known as BOSS 9.0 or Urja, was released on February 19, 2021.

According to analytics firm StatCounter, Linux achieved a 3% market share in June, marking a significant milestone after 30 years. Microsoft’s Windows still commands the largest share, followed by Apple’s macOS. Both companies have implemented various measures, including bug bounty programs, to encourage responsible disclosure of security flaws. To ensure the continuous evolution of Maya OS as a secure operating system that can effectively combat malware and ransomware groups, government agencies must consistently allocate sufficient resources in terms of funding and manpower.


Affiliate links may be automatically generated – see our ethics statement for details.

 

Reference

Denial of responsibility! TechCodex is an automatic aggregator of the all world’s media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Denial of responsibility! TechCodex is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
DMCA compliant image

Leave a Comment