Over the years, I've come to the realization that my trust in certain technological giants has waned, specifically Microsoft. The primary reason? I no longer use Windows as my main operating system. The issue with Windows is that it's not open source, which means only Microsoft truly knows how it functions and, more importantly, what it does with our data.

I'm not one to believe that there are merely “security leaks” on Windows. Instead, I stand by the belief that there are backdoors. These aren't the kind that will ever be mended; they're pathways for hackers and possibly even created intentionally for surveillance. It's no surprise to me, especially after digesting what Edward Snowden revealed about spying via smartphones. It raises the question: If our phones aren't safe, can our PCs, especially those running on Windows, or even Apple devices, be any different?

Personal experiences have further solidified my stance. I've encountered issues in my neighborhood, hearing conversations of neighbors that had no business reaching my ears. My technological privacy was invaded, with hackers having a field day with my Wi-Fi, smartphone, and computer. Despite trying numerous high-end antivirus software, none seemed to secure my Windows-based system.

Hence, I transitioned to Linux Ubuntu OS. Now, I am adept at setting up firewalls, configuring DNS over TLS/HTTPS, and employing tools like ClamAV, VPN IPsec/OpenVPN. I also sandbox some applications using the firejail program to shield against Zero-Day-Exploits. To further bolster my system's security, I manually compile the current Kernel from kernel.org. Additionally, I've incorporated a Password Manager Software that offers robust passwords and always utilize 2FA where possible. Security isn't just a word for me; it's a way of life.