“But with the recent popularity of Linux software, another
Microsoft competitor, Microsoft’s operating system monopoly itself
is being called into question.”
“In 1994, the Linux operating system was running on only 500,000
computers and industry experts were skeptical about its chances for
commercial success. Today, Linux’s “open” system is installed on
more than 8 million computers worldwide and touts over 60 venders
in the United States alone. Included are heavy hitters Compaq,
Dell, and Hewlett-Packard. Red Hat Inc., a successful seller of
Linux software, has recently gone public and quickly rose to over
$50 per share.”
“With Red Hat’s Wall Street success, experts predict an increase
in the number of Linux-related IPOs. This would mean more cash for
businesses to spend promoting the Linux operating system.
Increased marketing could win Linux the mass-market appeal it
will need to compete against Windows for desktop PCs.“