Today, many IT organizations have turned to x86-based hardware as a means of improving price performance from earlier UNIX and mainframe environments. On x86 servers, the two most commonly considered server operating systems are Windows Server and Linux. A comparison of the server operating system landscape shows that Microsoft offers a cohesive and extensive partner network, support staff, and experienced talent base. When implementing Linux, organizations are concerned with and challenged by the quality of support offered by the fragmented Linux support. Though the Linux partner network is growing, there are gaps—especially with respect to number and quality of vendors, consistent technical support, and certified talent.