Concerns over Windows-related security issues have prompted Google to begin phasing out Microsoft’s OS for internal use in favor of Mac OS X and Linux. The transition to a Mac and Linux office place began in January after the company’s computer systems were hacked, according to the Financial Times.
As new employees are hired, they’re now given the option of using Macs or PCs running Linux. “We’re not doing any more Windows. It is a security effort,” said an unnamed Google employee.
The change came after data was stolen from Google’s servers from an attack that originated in China. Concern over security at Google is so high now that Windows isn’t allowed on laptops, and the company CIO must approve Windows installations on desktop computers.
The policy change also fits with the company’s new guideline to try to use Google products internally whenever possible. “A lot of it is an effort to run things on Google product,” an employee said. “They want to run things on Chrome.”
While some employees were initially upset at the Windows ban, the overall reception has been positive. One employee commented, “It would have made more people upset if they banned Macs rather than Windows.”