Rom Feria
Microsoft's Jim Allchin suggested that you upgrade to Microsoft's upcoming operating system, Vista, for its safety and security ( http://news.com.com/Allchin+Buy+Vista+for+the+security/ 2100-1012_3-6032344.html?tag=nl ). Personally, I agree with Mr. Allchin. Microsoft Vista was designed with security in mind and not as an after-thought, like all the Windows operating systems to date. However, what does it take for you to upgrade to Vista?
First is the cost of the upgrade. I am not sure how much it will be but it sure would not be free, which is how much you need for Linux. :) If Microsoft engineered some features that prevents its OS from getting pirated, then more Filipinos might not be able to use Vista. Good! Yes, good for Linux, good for the Philippines because it will comply with IPO. :) It will also make Bill Gates' prediction of reducing piracy in Asia to western levels in 10 years!
The next is the hardware requirement. Nothing specific yet on the Microsoft site but it states "a modern processor, 512MB of system memory and a graphics processor that will support Windows Display Driver Model". A modern processor can be, as defined by Intel and AMD, an Intel Pentium 4 Processor with HT Technology and Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology or an AMD Sempron, Athlon 64/64 X2/64 FX processor. Anything with higher specs than these will run Vista. In contrast, Linux will run on machines as low spec'd as a 486, just don't expect graphics to fly! :)
Graphics wise, NVidia GeForce PCX to the 7800 GTX GPUs support Vista. In addition, ATI's All-in-Wonder X600 or Radeon 9500 or Xpress 200 are required for Vista. Linux has a far lower GPU requirement but benefits from more powerful graphics processors.
For home users, unless you have far compelling reasons to upgrade, it is recommended that you stick with what legit OS you have right now. Heck, if it is pirated, ditch it and go get a license! If you cannot afford it, contact me - maybe we can arrange for a meeting so I can give you a set of Ubuntu Linux CDs! If you have a pretty souped up computer system, throw that old Microsoft OS and get Vista! Still, if you cannot afford Vista, send me a note and let's talk Ubuntu Linux!
For corporations and organizations, I guess the same thing applies. The hardware requirement may be steep, I know it is for our computer laboratories in UP's Computer Science department, but either you stick with old Microsoft OS or get a modern OS like Linux. If you know of someone who wants to donate money to UP's Computer Science so that Vista can run on its labs, send me a note, too. :)
My take on this, you have two options: [1] save money to pay Microsoft for the Vista licenses and to upgrade your hardware or [2] save money to invest on Linux books and/or training. If you are highly dependent on Microsoft technologies, don't you thnk that it is about time to look at what Linux is all about? It may save you a lot of money.
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