Microsoft Windows Out, Linux-Based Maya In: India's Defense Ministry's Bold Move Against Cyber Threats

This story was first published on the Benzinga India portal.

In light of escalating cyber threats, India’s Defence Ministry is swapping out Microsoft Corp’s MSFT Windows OS in favor of its homegrown operating system, Maya.

What Happened? Drawing its roots from the open-source, Linux-based Ubuntu, Maya aims to provide a robust shield against malicious digital intrusions.

The surge in cyber-attacks targeting the nation’s defense mechanisms has prompted this proactive shift. A ministry insider told The Hindu, “Maya has the interface and functionality like Windows and users will not feel much of a difference as they transition to it. To begin with, the direction is to install Maya on all computers connected to the Internet in South Block before August 15.”

In addition to Maya, there’s a buzz about integrating a “Chakravyuh” – designed for end-point detection and protection.

Wider adoption: As of now, this tech pivot focuses solely on the Defence Ministry’s machines. However, there’s word on the digital streets that the Navy, Army, and Air Force might soon jump on the Maya bandwagon. The Navy’s already given it a nod, with the other two arms still assessing.

Reportedly, in a mere six months, government wizards crafted OS Maya, aiming to fend off the alarming rise in cyber onslaughts. This move underscores an evolving strategy, pivoting from a global OS giant to a locally brewed solution, especially after a spate of ransom and malware attacks.

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