Sidestep Windows and you sidestep the security challenge it poses, too. And a Linux machine that also runs Windows is going to be exposed to a lot more malware. It makes little sense, then, to undercut the price advantage of using Linux on the desktop by paying for Windows licenses on even some of those machines. What’s more, all of the Linux distributions included in this roundup offer all of these programs or comparable replacements, already installed and ready to use. All of these are available as programs directly on Linux or from cloud-based or SaaS alternatives. However, PC World calculates that much of enterprise computing involves QuickBooks Pro, Salesforce, Google Docs, Microsoft Office, Base Camp and Skype. There is a widespread but mistaken perception that Linux doesn’t offer the same applications and utilities as a typical Windows computer. SaaS apps + Linux means you don’t need Windows The price for proper enterprise-ready support still makes Linux desktop a much less expensive option.

There’s also a big cost difference between deploying Linux and Windows: Linux itself is free, so it’s the distributor’s support that you’ll pay for. That ability might appeal to executives, but it raises the question of whether it’s really necessary or even a good idea. In addition, all of them can run Windows programs through virtual machines or subsystems such as Wine.

Three of the five Linux distributions discussed offer reliable and professional-grade support, all have frequent updates to ensure that security exploits are addressed in a timely manner, and all have at least some level of corporate connectivity baked in. It’s a great time to explore enterprise-friendly Linux desktop options. PC World calls security “one of Linux's many advantages over Windows” and offers five reasons why it is more secure. Linux is often viewed as more secure, too. But in recent years Linux distributions have become far more sophisticated and user-friendly, and the cost of deployment can be a fraction of more traditional large-scale desktop installations. Relatively few companies consider the option of Linux on the desktop. Any inroads made against it have come from macOS X, typically in marketing and creative divisions. Microsoft Windows continues to rule the enterprise on the desktop.

There’s a very good chance that the big iron that composes the backbone of your company’s digital world is powered by Linux.Ĭhances are also good that it’s not on many of your desktops, if any. The operating system is running file servers, print servers, content delivery systems, global caching servers, data archives, VPN servers - you name it. As anyone in IT can tell you, Linux has invaded the server room.

Red hat enterprise linux