Some Snazzy Open-Source Operating Systems
Open-source software isn't just for the web, it can be used for a myriad of things, including the operating system that runs on your computer.
Think of each of the links in the table below as an individual alternative to any kind of operating system that might be pre-installed on your computer. Most computers commonly come with a variety of branded operating system pre-installed. Many people are not aware of the fact that they have a choice about what that brand and operating system can be:
It may seem like a large or intimidating list, but having choice among many alternatives is a good thing. Would you, as a consumer, benefit if there were only one brand of automobile? Just one variety of ice cream?
Probably not. Above is not a comprehensive listing of all of the alternatives available, but it does list many of the emerging industry leaders for cross-platform compatibility. The cross-platform compatibility is important for a couple of different reasons.
The first reason is that these operating systems provide a basic framework upon which you can freely and legally use and operate many different kinds free software, software that can be used for both work and for play: music and video, word processing, photo editing and graphic design, spreadsheets, presentations, even entire website design.
The second has to do with security.
Is this spyware? Will it break my computer?
No! If anything, installing one of the above operating systems on your computer will help your computer to be more secure. You will never have to go to the store to purchase anti-virus or anti-spyware software again. The reason that open-source systems are tough is because they are built by independent and small teams which use open source software libraries and code packages that are continually tested to assure that they meet the highest possible stability, security and reliability standards available. Indeed, these open-source *nix systems are on the cutting-edge for security and stability advancements.
This works because there is a constant stream or "feed" of news among developers in the open source community -- open-source code developers work together to fix or repair many of the issues and 'bugs' that cause problems with operating systems and software. Unlike with a closed or pay-per-license software, open source is truly open source. Any vulnerability in the stability, security or reliability of a respective system is usually noted and fixed very quickly by development teams. Many open source projects are small, have a quick development cycle, and can therefore respond efficiently to any problems.
Who uses them? What kind of support is available?
Many entities -- from small businesses to not-for-profit to educational organizations -- are already using open-source *nix systems for their computing and network needs.
In addition to the support that each of the individually-linked above sites offer, zentu*nix also offer a friendly place to find some help about *nix systems.
Open-source is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to the status quo. Indeed, competent IT people know that open-source software is an excellent choice for small businesses, not-for-profit organizations and students. Especially competent IT professionals also know that because of the respective customability within them, open-source *nix systems provide for the most secure and reliable frameworks for company web and database servers.
*Any trademarked names remain property of their respective owners and have been mentioned for comparative purposes only. Legal paperwork substantially increases the cost of, but adds essentially no consumer value to any kind of software.
