The microcomputer revolution empowered script kiddies and other, more inquisitive, barbarians to begin an onslaught against IT. With the advent of wireless computing and distributed operating systems, the dangers continue to evolve and to multiply. Often computer security takes us down . . .
The microcomputer revolution empowered script kiddies and other, more inquisitive, barbarians to begin an onslaught against IT. With the advent of wireless computing and distributed operating systems, the dangers continue to evolve and to multiply. Often computer security takes us down strange paths; for example, what is the connection between the Navajo language and the future of operating systems? These subjects seem odd bedfellows to be sure; yet, we shall learn that obscurity, contrary to the general maxim, sometimes does create a degree of security.

The current trends in OS development dwell on the mainstream players: Linux, Unix, and Windows NT/2000 and their offshoots Trinux, Minix, and Windows CE. Linux, for example, will probably continue with a 25% percent annual growth rate for the next couple of years. Factors driving the immense popularity of these OS families include economics, learning inertia, and the low desire for the "overengineering" of security features.

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