Linux advances on Laptops
Posted by Rick on Thursday, January 17, 2002 - 11:20 AM |
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Rick writes "Extracted from IT Week 14-01-2002
It Week Labs tests have shown that Linux could now be deployed with little fuss as a desktop operating system for firms with a Web-centric software strategy. A version of Linux from SuSE proved particularly suited for laptops, with impressive standards-based Web and email support.
The tests suggest companies that are reluctant to rely solely on Microsoft as a desktop operating system supplier could now pilot Linux systems with a view to widespread implementation. to date, Linux desktop systems have been more problematic to support than Windows.
In tests, Suse's Linux professional 7.3 was easy to install and ran well on notebooks. Its built-in browser and email software make it suitable for users of portal-based applications, but firms that rely on standalone Windows applications will find it less beneficial.
Although Suse's Linux had some minor glitches, it offered improved installation and configuration tools. It also provided strong support for Plug & Play PC card adapters, making it a viable alternative to Windows software.
In performance there was little between Windows and Suse. At 50 + VAT Suse Linux, which includes the Star Office 5.2 suite, is cheaper than Windows. The typical retail price for Microsoft Office XP and Windows XP Professional is 775+ VAT.
One IT manaager contacted by IT week said he would now test Linux computers " for the more computer-literate staff". this approach was backed by Eddie Bleasdale of e-business consultancy Netprojects, who said laptops are harder to configure than PCs.
Others said they wanted to switch operating systems because they were dissatisfied with Microsoft. One IT Manager said high pricing, security fears and other problems with Windows made a gradual switch to open source likely, as his firm stopped upgrading Windows systems. Bleasdale said advances would give Linux the performance of existing Windows tools, and would free firms from microsofts upgrade cycle.
However, some fear that Linux is still too complicated for general business use. Jerome Davis, IT Manager at PDG Helicopters, said users and IT support staff may lack the confidence to work with Linux. He arugued that Linux needs a similar look and feel to windows to be competitive.
Rick says.
It Managers have a responsibility to their company to evaluate the benefits and pitfalls of all software available. The " if it isn't broke don't fix it " is a valid approach to IT solutions, however one must always weigh the benefits and pitfalls of proprietory licenses and upgrade paths. Ultimately your IT is your responsibility and it is upto you to stay in control of your Systems. It's true there are large cost savings to implementing OSS, however it goes beyond that, the source is available for you to customise as you see fit. From a bug point of view you can do nothing with Proprietory software unless the Vendor has a fix. With OSS even if you don't have the knowledge to script a patch, you can find someone that will. It's true that confidence is an issue when working with OSS, however a concentrated effort over 6-8 weeks should give you a firm grounding. The key is don't try to learn everything, Learn where to find the answers you are looking for. You can always drop SWLUG a line if you get stuck, that's what we're here for...."
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