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For six years, the Internet Nexus served as my technology blog, but I've since started blogging at the SuperSite Blog instead. If you're looking for the blog, please head there. --Paul

Thursday, June 10, 2004

Linux: Not for Everyone

Enterprise Linux IT: "While Linux vendors sing the praises of their products for across-the-board enterprise I.T. operations, a wholesale switch from Windows to Linux may not be the best move for most businesses. 'If you are taking about basic infrastructure, such as file and print services, network routing or securityRelevant Products/Services from Microsoft, those are encapsulated operations that can move from one platform to another,' IDC analyst Dan Kusnetzky told NewsFactor. However, the transition to Linux from tried-and-true Windows or Unix must provide clear benefits to the organization, Kusnetzky says, and not just a 5 percent reduction in cost. Businesses also must consider the expense of new hardware and software, as well training the staff to use a new operating system."

This is exactly the discussion I had with Microsoft senior VP Bob Muglia regarding Linux recently (see full interview transcript). Linux is great at what I call "infrastructure services" (i.e. DHCP, DNS, print serving, etc.) but isn't an obvious sell for more complex tasks, such as the desktop. This isn't because Linux won't work well on the desktop, it's because most companies already have huge investments in Windows systems, applications, and services, and their desktop support staff are oriented to and well-trained in those areas. You can't switch for the sake of switching, even if it will ultimately save you a bit of money (and, arguably, it won't). In many cases, switching is simply impossible.

[ Posted at 1:52 PM | Permalink ]