What Good Is a Linux Client: Can You Make the Switch from Windows?

Like many users of PCs, you may be considering the switch to Linux. You've heard all the arguments about the economic viability and cross-platform compatibility of open source software in general and Linux in particular, but you may still be intimidated by the prospect of changing environments. IBM's Mark Chapman gives you the benefit of his own experience as a Linux newbie as he seeks to change over to Linux. He addresses many of the issues involved, including software availability and support.

by Mark Chapman

April 17, 2003

First published by IBM developerWorks at http://www-106.ibm.com/developerworks/linux/library/l-cli.html
All rights retained by IBM and the author.

Mark tests the conventional wisdom that Linux is not "ready for prime time" as anything but a network operating system. He seeks out commercial, shareware, and freeware programs for Linux to replace the existing applications he currently uses with Windows for his office and home systems. If they exist, where can a user find them, how easy are they to install and use, and how well do they work together? Mark's final goal is a system that would allow him to stop using Windows for anything. (Obviously your own mileage may vary, depending on what uses you have for your computer.)

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View or print Mark's 28-page article.

As you read Mark's article, you may encounter Linux terms that are unfamiliar to you. Mark has defined many of them in his Linux glossary for Windows users.

Mark Chapman is a 19-year IBM veteran who returned as a contractor in 1999. He has spent more than two decades supporting and writing about IBM products and technologies, from PCjr through xSeries servers. Mark is the author of a book on OS/2, as well as hundreds of technical database documents and dozens of white papers. Recent projects have included papers on Windows 2000, Linux, and IBM X-Architecture. Upcoming projects include papers on IBM Summit Technology. Mark has been married for almost 14 years, and has two beautiful daughters. You can contact Mark at mchapman@us.ibm.com.