Application development for different operating systems and cybersecurity considerations

When it comes to operating systems, the options are quite limited. While there may be different versions and editions, they have a lot in common. The exception is when it comes to application development and cybersecurity. Some systems are simply more secure than others because they are updated more often and, sometimes, they are open-ended so that users can help out by submitting improvements and suggestions when problems arise.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the operating systems that are currently available and how they impact cybersecurity.

Android and Linux

These operating systems are popular with app designers because so many phones and tablets run on inexpensive Android and Linux-based systems. One advantage of Linux-based systems is that they are constantly being updated and evolving based on the input of many developers, whereas commercial mass market systems like Windows and Mac or Apple iOS are not open source so they are only updated occasionally.

Different versions of Linux-based systems are plentiful allowing them to be used on a variety of computers even if the computer itself is very old and dated. Some maintain that Android and Linux are less hackable than Windows-based systems due to their constantly evolving nature. Since so many people browse and conduct business on mobile devices, Android is the most popular platform for developing apps for mainstream use.

Apple and iOS

While there is a large market for Apple products, their operating system is not used a lot for application development because it limits apps to only being usable on Apple products. Plenty of apps do come in different formats but initial development tends to be completed using an operating system that is accessible to more people. 

Windows

Windows is one of the most popular operating systems and has been for a long time. Before Android became so popular, Windows was the standard for practically any computer. When it comes to PCs, it is still the operating system that is typically included with any package deal. It is very easy to use and basically any app or software will run on it. 

For software development, it is used a lot because plenty of existing software is based on it. A computer scientist or programmer can customize Windows-based software to suit the precise needs of a company in many cases.

In terms of cybersecurity, Windows does have some disadvantages since it is such a well-known system that so many have mastered. Anti-virus software that is consistently updated can help a lot when it comes to patching holes in security.

Cybersecurity is a major concern for individuals and businesses alike

There are more people than ever attempting to steal personal information and financial credentials. Identity theft and hacking into various company systems are far more common than they should be and it is important for businesses and people to have a way to ensure their private information is as secure as possible.

When data theft happens, businesses suffer a lot

Unfortunately, when a company has a data breach or hack, the company gets blamed for the actions that occur and anything that happens in the aftermath. Losing client and customer information can break any trust and connection they have and result in financial losses. For some companies, a data breach can cause so much damage it cannot recover.

Ransomware attacks happen more than you might think

Some readers may remember when the Colonial Pipeline was hacked and critical systems held hostage by ransomware. This stopped the flow of gasoline to a large portion of the eastern United States. What some may not realize is that, even though the situation went on for more than a week, eventually the ransom was paid. 

Unfortunately, a lot of companies pay hackers what they ask to bring their operations back online. The reason for this is that it costs more to go days or weeks without producing than it does to pay the ransom. The side effect of this is that hackers are encouraged to continue this type of behavior because the evidence points to the fact that companies are willing to pay a substantial amount. The criminals behind the cyber attacks often go free and are never charged with any crime since it can be hard to impossible to trace who or which group is behind the attack. Monetary payments are often paid in cryptocurrency so there is no money trail to be pursued.

It is important for applications that are used in any business to be developed so it is as difficult as possible for hackers to gain access to critical systems or information.

Cybersecurity experts are necessary for business success

Businesses need cybersecurity experts to ensure their systems and files are safe and secure at all times. By hiring cybersecurity specialists, companies are being smart with their reputation and their finances. It does not take much lost business to make one see that having the right people on their IT team is important for long-term success and profitability.

If you want to know how to become a cyber security specialist you should check out St. Bonaventure University Online (SBU). SBU’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree can be completed entirely online and have you on your way to an exciting and in-demand career. As you earn your degree, you will learn how to implement enterprise and cloud security as well as ethical hacking or the practice of using hacking techniques to test security protocols and systems so you can know if a system is prone to attacks and fix any holes in the existing security protocols.

Custom-designed software must be secure to offer an advantage

Out-of-the-box software is popular but more and more companies are seeing the advantages of having their own custom software tailored to their operations. This is important for efficiency in the manufacturing process but also in customer service. Easy-to-use software decreases mistakes and cuts down on training costs at companies.

Even if a company chooses to use software that is out-of-the-box, they often need some customization to make it usable in their industry. Cybersecurity experts can recommend software based on the unique needs of the client. Their skill in getting systems up and running ensures that things run smoothly from the start.

That being said, completely custom software can take some time to design and to work out any problems. Company stakeholders need to be clear about their goals and work with developers and cybersecurity experts throughout the process. Problems are much easier to fix in the beginning stages than later on.

Companies increasingly rely on custom apps to drive business

It seems like all companies have their own custom app to engage customers. Grocery stores are a great example of businesses that now have an app to make it easier for customers to shop and do curbside pickup or even have groceries delivered. These apps, in combination with custom software, help make the shopping experience easier, especially for people that buy a lot of the same items weekly or monthly. Apps make it easy to reorder items or even set up grocery deliveries and pickups weeks or months in advance.

Popular stores and services have found apps to be a great way to encourage customer loyalty too. Using an app directs the person’s attention to just that one store so they are more of a captive audience than just going online.

Good app development is important. Testing apps a lot before releasing them to the general public is essential. People quickly abandon apps if they have a lot of trouble with them. While this may mean they just use your website, there is not much use in going to the trouble of developing and releasing an app if you don’t hire experts and take the time to do it right.

Ethical hacking and cybersecurity

Cybersecurity experts learn hacking skills but they use them for good rather than nefarious activities. A company may ask a cybersecurity expert to test their systems and see how easy it is to gain access. Plenty of time is spent by experts testing software periodically as hackers become more skilled.

Hacking has become more complicated so earning a degree in cybersecurity means spending a lot of time learning ethical hacking techniques and skills. In fact, this is something that cybersecurity experts will constantly need to learn throughout their careers.

Is cybersecurity the right career for me?

If you tick some or all of these categories below, you may consider that cybersecurity is the right career for you. 

You love a good puzzle or mystery

Computer science and cybersecurity are perfect for puzzle and mystery lovers. There is always something new to figure out and new problems to solve. It is hard to get bored in a career that is constantly evolving and offering up a new challenge.

You are looking for job security

Job security is important. There are many different jobs you qualify for with a degree in computer-related science. Data mining is a great example of a service that is in strong demand and you can graduate with a degree to provide advanced skills desirable to employers. Data mining is used by companies at all levels to learn more about their customers and make important business decisions.

Cloud security is an important niche market for computer experts. With so much information and data being stored virtually, it is extremely important to make sure it is secure and backed up to the appropriate servers just in case there is a problem.

You have always loved learning new things and are passionate about technology

Basically, your job is to know the technology inside and out. There is always something new to learn and it is important to keep up with changes and innovations. Working with companies in different markets and industries means you will be learning about a lot of different things. This knowledge is something you can apply to future projects or you may find that you really like a certain industry and want to find IT work within it. Any experience you can gain is beneficial if you decide to specialize.

You want a career with a lot of options and room for growth

While you can get a great job after graduation, there is a lot of room for growth in the world of computer science and cybersecurity. After you gain experience, you may even consider starting your own business or freelancing outside of work. The more experience you gain, the easier it will be for you to find clients.

Managerial and supervisor roles are possible over time and with them comes pay raises and other perks.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a serious concern for anyone who does business in a digital world. It is important that application development is conducted in a manner that offers the utmost security to developers, businesses, clients and customers.

Now is a great time to earn a degree in cybersecurity and learn how to be a major player in getting businesses on the fast track to success.

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