Windows Security
One of the biggest deficiencies of Unix web hosting is the threat of a hostile system takeover by hackers. While Windows users typically do not have this issue to worry about, there are other areas of concern that can spoil the experience; one such problem is a DOS (denial of service) attack. This usually occurs as the result of an infinite loop sequence that causes the system to freeze up and eventually crash. Microsoft’s solution to DOS attacks have been included in service pack updates for the Windows operating system. These software upgrades resolve the issue by running the loop for up to 60 seconds in which attempts are made to adjust it. When a loop cannot be resolved, Windows will cancel it out and proceed to function regularly.
One of Window’s biggest securities weaknesses has been tied closely to the vulnerability in NET BIOS that operate on TCP. Common activities such as file and print services can be accessed by online intruders by combining Net BIOS to TCP. To prevent this intrusive act, users can disable Net BIOS that are visible online.
In the previous chapter we briefly touched on the experience difference between Windows and Linux. Already known as the world’s most popular operating system, Windows is rapidly evolving in the area of web hosting. This very fact is major reason why security has been such an issue. Since source codes are not openly available like they are with Linux and Unix, Windows is able to frequently update its system to elude severe consequences caused by malicious hackers.
Windows and Remote Control Dependency
It’s been said that the Windows operating system depends too much on the Remote Procedure Call. RPC is what transmit a message over a network and instructs another application. This line of communication has no limits in regard to machine, operating system or time zone.
The extensive capability of RPC is what makes it a security liability for Windows. These controls are designed to allow users to send commands to the computers of others. When errors are found within an RPC application, roaming web hackers may be able to benefit from the flaw and devise a way to control someone else’s computer. Users do not have the ability to disable RPC because the Windows operating system literally relies on them, even when the internet is not connected.
The use of RPC based platforms are known to be the first victim of the infamous Slammerworm. This unsuspecting infection sabotaged so many systems in such a short amount of time that the entire internet was shook up.
The Slammerworm began its reign of terror by exposing two weaknesses found in the SQL database. The first one enabled users to run two instances of the database on one machine. To make things simple, there should be no reason to run multiple versions of a major system on one computer. If anything there will be file fragments left all over the place along with other disk space issues.
Windows’ solution to this problem was to create RPC components to manage requests for data. This connected numerous users all operating on SQL servers and literally placed them as sitting ducks. The Slammerworms eventually stumbled upon numerous computers that were open for an easy attack. This was all the result of a feature enabled by the SQL database.
Network Capability
Aside from memory shortages and gaps in security, Windows makes for a very reliable web hosting platform. There servers run protocols such as AppleTalk, DLC, IPX and NetBEUI IP. It also supports connections like Ethernet, Token Ring and Frame Relay. If more than one network card is installed on the system, the Windows server can then act as a router.
Windows uses Remote Access Service to accommodate inbound dial-up connections. This gives users the ability to dial up on the network through ISDN or PPP by using a LAN password and user ID. When the user has been granted authority, they then not only have access to the designated server, but the entire network as well. This is an affordable way for users to surf the web without having to purchase expensive modems and other network devices.
One of the biggest disadvantages of Windows networking is the need to restart the system whenever significant modifications have been made. This is the case when new protocol is added and DNS servers are changed. While this may not be an issue for some users, those running a 24 hour business will certainly think otherwise.
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