Microsoft examines Linux 'myths'

Microsoft Corporation has posted a controversial "Linux Myths" Web site that attempts to tear down the hype around this Open Source phenomenon and inject some reality.

"First, it's worth noting that Linux is a UNIX-like operating system," the site reads. "Linux fundamentally relies on 30-year-old operating system technology and architecture. Linux was not designed from the ground-up to support symmetrical multiprocessing (SMP), graphical user interfaces (GUI), asynchronous I/O, fine-grained security model, and many other important characteristics of a modern operating system. These architectural limitations mean that as customers look for a platform to cost effectively deploy scalable, secure, and robust applications, Linux simply cannot deliver on the hype."

Some of the "myths" that Microsoft tackles include:

• Linux performs better than Windows NT
• Linux is more reliable than Windows NT
• Linux is free
• Linux is more secure than Windows NT
• Linux can replace Windows on the desktop

"The Linux operating system is not suitable for mainstream usage by business or home users," Microsoft concludes. "Today with Windows NT 4.0, customers can be confident in delivering applications that are scalable, secure, and reliable--yet cost effective to deploy and manage. Linux clearly has a long way to go to be competitive with Windows NT 4.0. With the release of the Windows 2000 operating system, Microsoft extends the technical superiority of the platform even further ensuring that customers can deliver the next generation applications to solve their business challenges."

To further fan the flame, please visit Microsoft's Linux Myths Web site