In Russia, Kickbacks Kick You.. hee,hee,hee..
Actually I agree with the comment that all OS require security precausions. No OS is invulnerable though each have there strengths and weeknesses.
Unix like OS, mostly misconfiguration by the admin but some threat from malicious software within the short window of opertunity before developers correct what allows the proof of concept. Some viruses exist but they are rarely effective for very long though it's best to scan for win32/64 viruses to protect anyone who may be recieving files from the system.
Windows like OS, far more open to software exploitation so malware and AV scanners are a requirnment since MS has no interest in correcting the design flaws that allow the exploits. Some mysconfiguration risk exists also as any OS can be configured wide open; the difference is in the potential level of security an OS can provide.
As for kickbacks, "discounts" are suspect when they include a clause disallowing competitive products to be considered. That's true anywhere just as much as it's true in Russia with cash kickbacks. It's all the same to an accountant and worth considering. Microsoft's older practice of banning all competitive products through contract obligations is highly suspect. Remember that the "Halloween Documents" where leaked internal documents not externally fabricated accusations. There is a point at which "raising the barriers of entry and customer decision making" goes beyond "good business" and well into malicious intention.
The rest of your comment is suspect also but in general; work issues the tools that complete the possitions tasks, the staff mamber learns to use the tools, the job gets done. AutoCAD and similar specialty software will dictate what platform is required as much as enterprise class databases will dictate what platform they must be run on. Generall office work; no excuses.
If you haven't given serious and honest consideration to all possible options that may benefit your clients then you do a diservice too them. As a consultant, you don't have the luxury of blind brand loyalty.
