Sophos recently recommended computer users switch to Macintosh.  They recommended it because Windows users are being hit with malware more and more each year, and only one case of malware is known on Macintosh. 

But, the document doesn't even contain the word Linux.  Given their premise, it seems logical that Linux should at least be considered.  Linux has an excellent security track record, and malware for Linux is nonexistent.  Perhaps most importantly, users can install it for free on their existing hardware instead of paying thousands for a Mac rig.  If you really wanted to make the world a safer place, recommending free is more likely to be considered.  Many Windows users paid $400 for an eMachines box at Sams Club.  They aren't going to throw it away and shell out $1,200.00 for a Macintosh to avoid malware that they may not even realize they have.

Is there a reason why Sophos didn't even mention Linux?  Whatever could it be?

The first thing that comes to mind is that perhaps Sophos only sells products for Windows and Macintosh.  But, with a quick look around their site we find that isn't true.  They do sell a Linux product.  At first, it seems any thoughts of a hidden agenda are misguided.

Let's dig a bit deeper.  If there are no virii for Linux, and no malware for Linux, why does Sophos develop a Linux product?  The answer is simple.  It's because many companies run their mail servers on Linux.  The Sophos Linux product is designed to catch a virus or mailware on the server before it ever makes it to a Windows or Macintosh desktop.

So, if everyone is running Linux on the desktop, what would happen to the market for Sophos' products?  It disappears, even its Linux product.

But wait, there's a flaw in that theory.  It seems odd that they would recommend that people leave Windows, since it is the most insecure desktop available, which certainly is good for security companies.  That is, until we consider that Microsoft is adding antivirus and anti-malware features to Windows, and is now selling a line of anti-virus software.  This is going to kill the market for Windows av software.

Security companies like Sophos can see the decline coming, and it comes as no surprise to see them recommending Macintosh. 

For what it's worth, I recommend giving Linux a try.  You've got nothing to lose.  If you've already got a computer running Windows, it won't cost you a dime.  If you find it not to your liking, you can always follow Sophos' recommendation and plunk down $1,200 every few years.  But if you find Linux fits your needs, you'll have a lifetime of free software to look forward to, and generally speaking you'll only need to upgrade your already inexpensive PC hardware once a decade.