"This time it's patents that will ensure the downfall of GNU/Linux and with it, the entire world of open source. But before hanging up your certified geek propeller-hat and retraining as a dental hygienist, you might want to consider the following brief history of Microsoft's use of fear, uncertainty, and doubt as a weapon against GNU/Linux." Hopelessly pro-everything-that-is-Linux, but an interesting overview of Microsoft's approach to Linux over the years nonetheless. Elsewhere, the Guardian looks at the challanges Microsoft is currently facing.
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Member since:2005-11-06
Indeed a must read, along with the linked articles in it.
Over the years it has become obvious that MS is getting more and more nervous about OSS. Just like they push collaboration with their Office software OSS is pushing collaboration between developers and users around the world. OSS is like one massive, worldwide project and even if MS tried, it's too big to stop it.
I think the lies, backstabbing, etc. over the years is backfiring now, and the only way MS can save its face is to come clean and become a honest company. Swallow the false pride, admit that they're not the be-all, end-all and work together with other companies to improve the world of IT. This way they would always have a market for OS, Office, games, etc. because going against everything and everyone might just mean they won't have anything left in the end. (yes, that could be tommorrow, or in many, many years)
MS doesn't make bad software, it's just too closed and arrogant, and that won't make them any friends.
Member since:2005-12-23
!!!
"MS doesn't make bad software, it's just too closed and arrogant, and that won't make them any friends"
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Ms does NOT make bad software ???
- Well, from a technical point of view:
They have done bad software, they have done good software too, and they have done HORRIBLE software, plenty of bugs, bugy patches and premature releases for the sake of greed, sistematically (OSs only getting stabillity over the years)...
- but, from a moral point of view (if you want to apply this to software. You can apply ethics to everything in life actualy):
All their software is extremely HORRIBLE...
Too closed and arrogant, sure they are...
and, that won't make them any friends, YES, but between people with some concern of ethics in software, law, economics...
Anyway, they have all the friends that money and power can buy... do not underestimate Ms.
!!!
Member since:
2005-10-18
This is a must read! Good article, and I've only read half of it so far lol.
Going back to reading
--ZaNkY