Tests indicate Linux could be a desktop solution

Source: ZDNet

One IT manager contacted by IT Week said he would now test Linux computers "for the more computer-literate staff". This approach was backed by Eddie Bleasdale of e-business consultancy Netproject, who said laptops are harder to configure than PCs.

Others said they wanted to switch operating systems because they were dissatisfied with Microsoft. One IT manager said high pricing, security fears and other problems with Windows made a gradual switch to open source likely, as his firm stopped upgrading its Windows systems. Bleasdale said advances would give Linux the performance of existing Windows tools, and would free firms from Microsoft's upgrade cycle.

However, some fear that Linux is still too complicated for general business use. Jerome Davis, IT manager at PDG Helicopters, said users and IT support staff may lack the confidence to work with Linux. He argued that Linux needs a similar look and feel to Windows to be competitive.