The Indian Ministry of Defence is ditching Windows for Maya OS, which is based on Ubuntu, a free and open-source Linux distro that is considered to be more secure and reliable than Windows.
The Defence Ministry has unveiled a significant cybersecurity initiative involving the replacement of Windows on all its internet-connected computers with a novel operating system named Maya. This decision comes as a response to the increasing menace of malware and ransomware attacks, which have grown more frequent and severe in recent times.
So, what exactly is Maya OS, and how does it differ from Windows? Furthermore, how will it benefit the military, and who are the masterminds behind its development? Here are some answers to these pressing questions.
What is Maya OS?
Maya OS is an innovative operating system built on the foundation of Ubuntu, a widely acclaimed Linux distribution that relies on free and open-source software. The Defence Ministry has collaborated with various government agencies, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and the National Informatics Centre (NIC), to craft Maya OS.
One of the key strengths of Maya OS lies in its user-friendly interface and functionality, closely resembling that of Windows. Additionally, it boasts a feature known as Chakravyuh, an endpoint anti-malware and antivirus software that establishes a virtual barrier between users and the internet, effectively thwarting hackers’ attempts to access sensitive data.
What is Ubuntu, and is it genuinely more secure than Windows?
Ubuntu stands out as one of the most extensively used Linux distributions globally, renowned for its robust security measures. In contrast to Windows, which is susceptible to a multitude of malware and vulnerabilities due to its extensive services and backward compatibility, Ubuntu has a significantly lower incidence of malware and exploits.
When can we expect the deployment of Maya OS?
Maya OS is currently undergoing evaluation and is slated for imminent implementation. The strategic plan entails the installation of Maya on all internet-connected computers within South Block before August 15, accompanied by the integration of the Chakravyuh protection system. The remaining computer systems are set to transition to Maya OS by year-end.
