How Does Linux Compare?

Competitive Comparisons

Read about the strengths of Small Business Server compared with this competitor. Thousands of Compatible Applications Because Small Business Server 2000 includes the mature, multipurpose Microsoft Windows® 2000 Server operating system, plus Microsoft SQL Server™ 2000 and Microsoft Exchange 2000 Server, there are thousands of compatible business applications available to run on top of Small Business Server 2000. Even operating systems backed by companies such as IBM will struggle in comparison with Windows when it comes to available application choices. Better Integration and Ease of Use - Stronger Long-term Buy While the Linux software is practically free, implementing it is far from free. Because Linux lacks complete programmer toolkits and consistent standards for things like object technologies, a rollout will require substantial developer and administrator time. Meanwhile, Small Business Server 2000 delivers full-featured functionality and better ease of use right out of the box for both customers and technology providers. Plus, all of the applications delivered in Small Business Server 2000 are integrated to enable a unified setup that's efficient and predictable, as well as centralized management capabilities. The familiar Windows user interface further contributes to the ease of installation and management of the server. Popular, Reliable Platform - Less Risk Linux is an open-source operating system with limited company-based support. The open-source nature of the product means that many Linux deployments are somewhat unique and custom built with various solution pieces pulled together. Thus, a small-business customer must rely heavily on the technology provider who designs and implements the Linux-based network. If that technology provider is not available to continue to provide support, there is not likely to be another provider who can easily step in and have the knowledge to take over support of that custom-built network. Greater Depth of Channel Support Because Small Business Server 2000 is built on the popular Windows 2000 Server operating system, there are many certified technology consultants who have the skills and expertise to implement and maintain a Small Business Server network. Because Linux still represents an immature and fragmented market with limited company-based support, it lacks the same depth of channel expertise. This can make it difficult for small-business customers to find qualified technology providers who can support Linux-based systems. This also makes it difficult for technology providers to find qualified employees with Linux expertise. Keeps Pace with New Technology The open-source nature of Linux means that the company lacks a centralized strategy for keeping pace with emerging technologies and hardware. And that means Linux is typically much slower than Microsoft and Microsoft partners to consistently deliver the tools needed to stay current with new hardware requirements and new technologies.