| Desktop Linux not ready for mainstream acceptance, study says |
Apr. 21, 2005
In a recent survey of nearly 1,700 respondants, UK analyst firm Quocirca unearthed the top reasons why organizations want to switch from Microsoft products to Linux, and why they haven't yet, concluding that Linux is overall still too immature to be considered a viable alternative to Windows for most organizations.
In summarizing its findings, Quocirca says people look to Linux for these common reasons: - Concerns about Windows security vulnerabilities
- The high cost burden of keeping Windows secure
- A perception that Windows squanders the power of modern hardware
- Ongoing frustration with Windows stability and reliability
- Confusion and dissatisfaction with cost and complexity of Windows licensing
However, Quocirca says it found reluctance to switch because migrating to Linux brings its own problems: - Software availability and compatibility issues
- Usability, end user acceptance, and resistance to change
- The cost and challenge of end user training and support
- The cost and challenge of porting Windows applications
- A frequently encountered dependency on Microsoft Active Directory
"Desktop Linux and associated applications still have a way to go before they can be thought of as a viable wholesale replacement for the Windows based desktop in most organisations," Quocirca concluded. However, Quocirca suggests that some organizations will find a solid, cost-effective alternative in Linux. The report analyzes the costs and benefits to help readers decide if switching to Linux is the right choice for their organization.
A full copy of the report is available on request, via a form on Quocirca's website.
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