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Time for maturity in the Windows vs Linux debate
One thing that often frustrates me when discussing the relative merits of different operating systems is how quickly it can descend into Microsoft bashing.
It's almost used like an ace in cards by people as they smugly say 'Oh well, it's Microsoft and you can't trust them to get data secure/not try to act unfairly'.
If Windows really was as bad as these people make out, we wouldn't be using it. Every day millions of people do their daily jobs and fun stuff with Windows and don't have crashes or loss data. Computer manufacturers and companies would not be prepared to spend the money in support.
I bring this up because I've just been reading a very good article by Bruce Byfield called It's time to get over Microsoft. Much of the time open source software stands up as a good alternative without the polemic. OpenOffice is a good example. I've been using this for years and had no problems replacing Office when my 2007 beta ran out.
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While it's certainly true that lots people use Windows everyday I truly believe it's because (A) they aren’t aware of the alternatives, (B) because they have to use it at work or (C) they cant be bothered to learn the workings of a whole new OS. Schools generally (at least in the UK) only teach children how to use Microsoft products so that cycle continues. Now, I'm a happy everyday Windows user myself but (in my opinion!) the UK government should be investing in free and not proprietary software.
Yes, I’m going off on a tangent here but...
I know all about the price comparison debate but free operating systems are cheaper for the tax payer, inherently more secure (peer review) and completely customizable. I find it truly bizarre that the UK government continues to purchase/use /support a product for mission critical purposes when they aren’t even allowed to review the source code. Now that last part could be construed a Microsoft bashing it isn’t. These are the rules, accept the EULA or don’t. For individual’s that’s fine, it’s a personal choice. For the government, not so much
Just my two penneth ;]
posted-by William | November 20, 2007 6:29 PM