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TECHNOLOGY - LINUX - A NEW BUSINESS COMPUTING OPTION
What's New in Technology
June 2004
TECHNOLOGY - LINUX - A NEW BUSINESS COMPUTING OPTION
Could Linux be right for your business? Here is a brief introduction and an outline of some pros and cons to consider:
What is Linux?
Linux is a UNIX-like operating system. It is a kernel (a set of computer instructions or code) that manages hardware, allocates memory and supports applications. Since its inception, independent software developers have developed a vast range of software to run on the Linux system. Unlike proprietary brands, which must be purchased and may not be copied, changed or re-distributed, Linux software is free and may be adapted. It is the best known example of Open Source Software/Free Software (OSS/FS).
Advantages
- Linux is free (as noted above) and non-commercial.
- Linux is reliable. Users reporter infrequent "crashes" and computer downtime.
- Linux-based systems offer better security than Windows Web sites as evidenced by the lower hacker insurance rates available to user of Linux-based systems.
- Its flexibility allows businesses to adapt and customize software to suit their specific needs. It can support a wide range of hardware platforms from small to very large business servers. Most important, when new Linux software versions appear they do not require continual upgrades to more powerful hardware.
- Software is "bundled" to allow easy selection by businesses. Linux software distributors frequently offer business owners the option of a single system package that addresses all their needs.
- Linux offers great compatibility with other applications. Using an open-source version of Windows, it can run Windows applications and most UNIX free-ware will work on the
Linux OS. - Linux users are well supported. There is plenty of advice on Usenet web sites and many commercial technical support enterprises are available to provide assistance. Documentation abounds, furnished by developers who have evaluated and documented their findings.
- A thorough evaluation of the software and the existing hardware used in your office should be undertaken to make sure that the appropriate Linux software is available and that it will work on your computers.
- It is unlikely that using Linux means that you will incur no costs at all. You will probably want to contract with a reputable firm for technical support and there will be some training costs (see below).
- OSS/FS (free) software is created by a variety of different developers and interfaces may vary according to the applications used. Your software administrator and your technology staff will need some Linux training.
- Be realistic about undertaking a transition from a propriety OS system to Linux. How big a job will a complete transition be and how will you manage the change process?
These articles are intended to provide general resources for the tax and accounting needs of small businesses and individuals. Service2Client LLC is the author, but is not engaged in rendering specific legal, accounting, financial or professional advice. Service2Client LLC makes no representation that the recommendations of Service2Client LLC will achieve any result. The NSAD has not reviewed any of the Service2Client LLC content. Readers are encouraged to contact their CPA regarding the topics in these articles.
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