Windows 10 and 11 can be affected by malware if proper security measures aren't in place.
Windows 10 and 11 can be affected by malware if proper security measures aren't in place.
Windows 10/11 are not inherently malicious; they’re mainstream commercial operating systems. Malware refers to harmful software designed to disrupt or steal data. While you might disagree with Microsoft’s tracking methods, update rules, or interface design, those concerns relate to privacy and user experience—not malware itself. If you want more freedom, Linux or BSD offer solid options, though labeling Windows as malware isn’t precise.
Microsoft provides tools meant to harm or obtain unauthorized entry. The company is removing the Flash player from devices using Windows 10 via a universal backdoor, which compromises user systems by allowing unwanted access. Consent was absent, forcing users to have unwanted software taken away.
I understand your perspective on Microsoft pushing for update removals. However, I still believe malware typically reflects a desire to exploit or damage the user, rather than simply enforcing a company's rules. In Microsoft’s situation, it leans more toward maintaining control and compliance, which is concerning but differs from conventional malware behavior.
It’s a system upgrade that eliminates an outdated Flash Player version installed during a prior Microsoft release, without introducing any backdoors. This also doesn’t impact the software you’ve already set up. If this matches your view of malware and backdoors, then every OS with an updater fits this description. The “backdoor” you mention is actually a self-updating feature for Windows Update itself, not for the broader system. That logic makes sense—keeping updates enabled prevents the updater from breaking. Windows Update can be completely turned off according to their guidelines. Avoid the confusion around GNU claims; by definition, anything not fully open source is considered malware and likely contains a false backdoor.
I’m fine with Microsoft retaining my data as long as they continue improving their systems and maintain a smooth user experience. Testing Ubuntu and Truenas Scale on my server proved to be quite challenging—statistically speaking, most everyday users face significant difficulties with Linux.
The OS meets its purpose of facilitating the use of your computer, so no, it's not malware. I have a lot of issues with windows and haven't used it outside of work for a couple years but let's not be hyperbolic. Adware and spyware? Absolutely, but the whole program is not malicious.
It seems the situation is quite unusual. People are questioning whether it’s genuine. Microsoft appears to clarify things clearly, but there’s still debate about the extent of what’s accepted. Much of the agreement seems legally sound, though the process behind it isn’t always straightforward.
By its nature it is... Yet it's software with limited oversight...
You’ll need to accept certain terms first. Linux is an option, but it’s not mandatory unless specified.