Is Ubuntu Linux Ready for the Enterprise? (
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NEWS ANALYSIS: Ubuntu is the leader in the Linux environment and it's slowly making its way into the mainstream. But is it ready to tackle the enterprise? While there is no chance of Ubuntu overtaking Microsoft Windows' dominant market share or even making a dent compared to Apples Mac OS X, this open-source operating system can make a difference in the enterprise.Linux is an enigma. It has a loyal following. It's a robust operating system. It's
free. It's superior to both Windows and Mac OS X on a variety of
fronts. And in recent years, it has become more user-friendly than ever
before. It's a fantastic operating system with a slew of distributions
that would satisfy any user.
And yet it's not even close to capturing a significant portion of the market.
But one of the operating system's most popular distributions-- Ubuntu--has the best chance of changing that. Unlike many of its alternatives, it can appeal to the average consumer with
limited knowledge of the Linux environment. It's designed to be easier to
use than other Linux distributions. And thanks to Dell, it's quickly gaining mass-market
appeal. Will it beat Windows anytime soon? Of course not. And
there's little chance that it can best Apple's Mac OS X in market share.
But it has hope in the enterprise. It sports a variety of features that
appeal to companies. And more importantly, it's not such a significant
jump from Windows that it would confuse employees. Simply put, it's
getting close to becoming an ideal platform for the enterprise.
Use
Using Ubuntu Linux is a real treat. I've used it on numerous
occasions, and each time it has provided a robust experience.
Ubuntu is intuitive. Users who are used to Windows should feel at home in
Ubuntu. They'll find a simple, Windows-like interface, they'll be able to
install applications without much trouble, and basic use is made simple with
the help of its fantastic design. Whether it's checking e-mail, surfing
the Web, or simply taking a few minutes to get some work done, the software is
more than capable.
Security
Ubuntu is far more secure than Windows. Although many companies are deploying software to keep Windows safe and even Microsoft is releasing software of its own to improve
the operating system's security, there's no such worry with
Ubuntu. Critics say Ubuntu doesn't suffer from malware or security issues
as much as Windows because of the sheer number of Windows users compared to
Ubuntu users. It's simple economics. The malicious hackers are
looking to make some money and it's much easier to do that on Windows, rather
than Ubuntu.
But those who have actually used Ubuntu can attest to the system's
security. It makes users run with limited rights by default. Once
installed, it has no open ports. And since it's an open-source product,
it's constantly being updated to ensure security is maintained. It's a
treat to use and most enterprises wouldn't need to worry about security with
Linux installed. It's certainly more secure than Windows.
| | Reader Comments: Is Ubuntu Linux Ready for the Enterprise? | | >>> Post your comment now!
| | 3 years is too longThe idea of mass step change upgrades belongs to the closed source world. Upgrades are far easier done incrementally so the 3 years LTS is really... Posted At: 07-01-09 By: Chris Puttick | | | | | | Is ready, is being usedHappening now, here. Is fine once you have done migrating to cross-platform applications.
And you need AD for what? Legacy approaches to... Posted At: 07-01-09 By: Chris Puttick | | | | | | | | | | | | A user comment on this articleDon, my boy. If you lived in the enterprise, you would not only know that Linux has made SERIOUS inroads into the enterprise, but that in these hard... Posted At: 06-30-09 By: Tweeks | | | | | | lacks professional supportI have a small home network (6 nodes) . Have experimented with Ubuntu a number of times with little success. The OS is priced right, solid as a rock... Posted At: 06-30-09 By: Hank | | | | | | where did that 300 number come from?I would really like to know where you pulled that estimate of 300 viruses for Linux from. I have been using Linux for a very long time, but I have... Posted At: 06-30-09 By: txtechdog | | | | | | HappyNo, I'm not an "enterprise" user, but I do have 500+ Windows PC's from 2000 to server 2003 to manage. After fighting with Vista (AKA Millenium II) I... Posted At: 06-30-09 By: clifffton | | | | | | >>> Post your comment now! | | | | | |
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