Operating Systems Security

Vladislava Chitii

Bakalářská práce

Abstract:

An operating system (OS) acts as a bridge between software and hardware, efficiently managing system resources to ensure flawless communication and functionality. It coordinates processes, allocates memory, controls device access, and enforces security protocols, making it a critical component of modern computing. Operating system security is essential for protecting computers and networks from any form of cyber-attacks, unauthorized access, data breaches, and system failures. As the core software that manages hardware and software interactions, the operating system plays a vital role in enforcing security policies and ensuring system stability. Windows and Linux are two of the most widely used operating systems, each with distinct architectures, specific security models and approaches to protecting users. This paper examines the security architectures of both systems, comparing their strengths, weaknesses, and methods for handling security threats. It explores key aspects such as user privilege management, system updates, default security settings, and built-in protective features. Additionally, this study highlights real-world challenges in OS security and provides visual aid in the practical part, which may help enhance system protection, and help gain a better understanding on how an operating system works. By understanding these differences, users and administrators can make informed decisions about securing their systems in an increasingly interconnected digital world.

Keywords

security, penetrative testing, challenges, preventions, malware, vulnerabilities, kernel, architectures, permissions, operating systems, Linux, Windows

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 26. 3. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 21. 5. 2025
• Vedoucí: Ing. Martin Havránek, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Petr Benda, Ph.D.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Provozně ekonomická fakulta

Bakalářský studijní program:
Informatics