Dear Microsoft UK’s Nick McGrath
This is in response to Robert Jaquez’ article Linux security is a ‘myth’, claims Microsoft.
“Who is accountable for the security of the Linux kernel? Does Red Hat, for example, take responsibility?”
Nick’s Answer: “It cannot, as it does not produce the Linux kernel. It produces one distribution of Linux.”
My Answer: Yes infact Redhat can take responsibility for the Linux kernel sent out in it’s own distribution and often does. Second they frequently submit patches on the Linux kernel mailing list. These patches are passed on to all distributions that use the kernel.
“In Microsoft’s world customers are confidant that we take responsibility. They know that they will get their upgrades and patches.”
I’m confident that my vendor will get me patches for security updates without having to wait weeks or even months for a “Service Pack.”
“Most customers look for more than just a product from their vendors. They need a solution that comes with the appropriate levels of support and service. This is where Linux is becoming more challenged as people expect more from Linux.”
Red hat has offered support for quite some time. If you don’t feel comfortable relying on a linux only company maybe you would like to be backed by Novell.
“Linux is not ready for mission-critical computing. There are fundamental things missing. For example, there is no single development environment for Linux as there is for Microsoft, neither is there a single sign-on system.” There are many development environments for Linux. This is the power of choice that Microsoft seems to be missing. I fail to see how a login system keeps Linux from being ready for mission-critical computing. XDM is the standard graphical login system for most desktop environments.
[Update - 1/13/05 - Wes Maldonado has corrected my ignorance about Linux single sign-on. Thanks 
]
“There are bits of the Linux software stack that are missing. These are factors that are holding back Linux.” What’s missing?
Robert, I understand that you are just publishing an interview but maybe you can help your readers out a bit by shining some light on what you are being given from the Microsoft marketing engine instead of just regurgitating it. As far as I can tell you didn’t even try. I spent a grand total of about 20 minutes researching for this post.