INSIGHTS
Software platforms have unique pros and cons, with a direct impact on security performance. Alf Chang, Senior Consultant for A&S magazines and a former installer, looks at key features and design considerations.
Embedded operating systems (EOS) are fundamental in computing. The advantages of different systems depend on their functionality, reliability, cost, form factor, power consumption and more. Each EOS is evaluated by how it performs in harsh environments or when power is interrupted, and how the system recovers for stable and normal operation.
Examining the Differences Between Linux and Windows for Security Applications
Date: 2011/05/05
Source: The Editorial Team
The shared traits of both Linux and Windows make them suited for further software development. Chart 1 compares the performance of both systems in the past and the present, and their current status.
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In the past, Windows Embedded did not support Linux. The hardware and applications only considered Microsoft operating programs, such as Internet Explorer and ActiveX. Most multimedia, cell phones and online games were geared toward Windows users.
However, Linux has many programs that cannot run on the Windows platform. This is mainly because it relies on graphical windows and resources that are incompatible with Windows, or has stability issues without Windows support. The development of KDE SC and Cinepaint enabled Linux users to migrate Windows programs to Linux. However, the Linux GNOME desktop does not support Windows.
Another crucial difference is that Linux costs nothing, while Microsoft requires a fee for Windows. The Linux source code can be reproduced for free, which is sufficient for most interface and efficiency demands from users. Windows panes are closed and less transparent, as the graphical interface's coding must be accessed from the system's core. This makes the interface more responsive that Linux, but any errors in the icon interface will crash the system. Chart 2 outlines development and applications differences between Linux and Windows.
Linux and Windows have several application differences, as Windows is more modular and expandable. It performs well for real-time and communications, and is supported by most CPUs. The Windows design is suited for the majority of network management controls, including industrial computers, network switches or mini PC terminals. Consumer devices such as digital cameras, webcams and smart phones with small form factors can be served by the Windows EOS.
On the other hand, Linux supports the X86 chip for a cross-platform system. It is easily transferable, with support on 20 to 30 CPU-based systems from most CPU or SoC suppliers. This allows for convenient Java integration for surveillance servers, and will not require the platform to be rehauled. Linux also has a complete internal network structure, supporting 10/100 M BaseT, as well as gigabit and WLAN.
SECURITY ISSUES
Security applications require specific software or hardware, so the right system will maximize performance while minimizing software requirements. In light of this trend, EOS CPUs are moving toward SoC development. Video surveillance equipment, such as network cameras, DVRs and NVRs, must be have simpler hardware design to stably run various software programs. Component suppliers must provide the virtual environment for security manufacturers to design their hardware platforms. Equipment makers can then develop their product APIs even without a physical hardware platform, along with running interoperability tests.