Is desktop Linux too fragmented to succeed?
Apr 28, 2009, 12:02 (7 Talkback[s])
(Other stories by Neil McAllister)
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"Unlike Windows or Mac OS X, each of which is the product of a
single vendor, Linux comes in many different distributions that
target the desktop, and each has its own look and feel. Some are
based on the Gnome desktop environment, while others use KDE, and
still others let the user choose between both. Icons, color
schemes, desktop backgrounds, menus, directory arrangements,
control panels, and available software choices will all vary
depending on which distribution is installed. We speak of Linux as
if it were a single, coherent entity, but from the user's
perspective, there's really no such thing.
"Having a single version of Linux as the de facto standard for
the enterprise desktop would make training easier, increase Linux's
attractiveness to individual home users, and lower barriers of
entry for commercial software vendors. All of this in turn would
make Linux more competitive with Windows and Mac OS X. However,
"one Linux to rule them all" seems unlikely. The market is rich
with competition, and neither commercial Linux vendors nor open
source developers are likely to agree on a single vision."
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