Depending on your point of view, only the second "reason" is true. Software switches like the one described in the article (despite its name) are definitely ea

Depending on your point of view, only the second "reason" is true. Software switches like the one described in the article (despite its name) are definitely easier to break since they can be hacked by software. No need to have physical access to the computer. A discrete switch definitely looks cleaner than a piece of duct tape, and is much easier to turn on/off. If you want to "switch off" your mic, bad luck.