"The economic downturn, combined with Microsoft Corp.'s
new, more hard-nosed licensing policies for its software, may be
creating a new opening for Linux and other upstart computer
operating systems, analysts say.
As the recent economic slump puts new pressure on corporate
budgets, Microsoft is doing everything it can -- including raising
its prices on some software licences -- to ensure its sales don't
fall flat.
Carl Howe, an analyst with Forrester Research Inc. of Cambridge,
Mass., says the two developments have combined to spur more users
to switch to Linux and other so-called "open-source" operating
systems.
'It's actually getting a toehold in this economic environment.
The world has changed since last year.'"
