Preaching to the converted at LinuxWorld, IBM has unveiled a new plan to help enterprises migrate from Windows to Linux. IBM"s strategy is based on Microsoft"s decision to stop supporting Windows NT by the end of 2004. This will prompt many of NT"s approximately 2 million customers to upgrade to a recent Windows version. Or -- as IBM hopes -- switch to a completely new operating system. For those NT users feeling adventurous, IBM has a program to make it easier. Not to be outdone, Microsoft has a migration plan of its own, which it also is touting at LinuxWorld. The software giant is promoting its Windows-to-Unix migration technology, Windows Services for Unix (SFU) Version 3.5 upgrade, which helps users wean themselves from higher-cost Unix environments.
Gradual Move?
Microsoft"s NT software has been a stalwart for many small to mid-size businesses since its release in 1996. But as the program aged, a number of security problems have surfaced. In February of 2003, Microsoft had to withdraw an NT patch because the patch itself was flawed. To continue to use the application after Microsoft stops issuing security patches could create a major liability for a business. The expiring support for NT creates "a window of opportunity" for IBM, Meta Group analyst Earl Perkins told NewsFactor. "Enterprises will indeed be looking at alternatives," he said, but added that a mass migration is not likely. "It will be gradual, over time."