Programs that don't require a Windows license include the following: This time, I've taken a hard look at two other alternatives.Įmulation programs fall into roughly two groups: Those that require a Microsoft Windows license and those that don't. I've discussed some of those in a previous story (see 'Linux and Windows: Can't We All Just Get Along?'). Almost all users have some Windows program that they must have in order for Linux to be as functional as Windows is for them.įortunately, there are a growing number of options for providing users with their must-have applications on a Linux desktop. My experience as a user and programmer on Windows operating systems - and as a participant in some lively discussions that take place in the Computerworld community forums - confirm that the transition to Linux isn't always easy for the user or the administrator. Not so with desktop computers for work or home. Also, users typically don't have direct contact with servers, so the underlying operating system isn't a big deal to them. Among the reasons for this are its versatility, ease of administration, minimal upfront cost and lack of client-access license entanglements. Linux provides a very good upgrade path for servers in businesses of all sizes.

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