It's Time For Linux On The Desktop

Linux

One of the biggest challenges of getting Linux on the corporate desktop has been mind share. In other words, the perception behind desktop Linux is that while viable, it's not worth the effort. It's up to the solution provider community to change that perception.

Many solution providers are confused about how Linux can fit into the corporate environment while still creating revenue opportunities. That stems from the ideology that Linux is free. On the surface that may be true, but the reality is Linux builds service and support opportunities, along with hardware sales.

White-box builders should take note. By offering Linux as a desktop OS, overall system costs can be reduced, allowing more effective competition against the likes of Dell. Integrators can use the upgrade cycle to push Linux to desktops, citing well-publicized concerns about Windows XP and touting that Linux offers many of the same capabilities at a fraction of the cost.

Arguably, the hardest part of getting started with a desktop Linux solution is what distribution to choose. While Linux mavericks each have their own favorites, the simple fact is that most of the distributions on the market are overkill and offer too many choices, which further complicates deciding which one to pitch.

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Turning to the Web for research further complicates the issue. Distribution numbers are starting to rival the number of stars in the sky. The secret here is to pick the simplest distribution going and focus on the primary aspects of a desktop OS. That sums up to a GUI, a browser, an office suite and networking. Add Windows application support (thanks to Crossover Office by Codeweavers) and an easy installation path, and Linux becomes an ideal candidate on the desktop.

Turning to the market, solution providers can look to a few major Linux distributions to meet those needs. Xandros has made great strides with its Desktop OS 3 distribution, by providing ease of use and unprecedented Windows compatibility. Novell's Linux Desktop also deserves consideration, as well as distributions from Mandrake and TurboLinux.

Perhaps with some effort, solution providers can make 2005 the year of the Linux desktop.

What do you think about Linux on the desktop? Let me know via e-mail at [email protected].