Linux vendor Xandros has announced the launch of Version 3 of the Xandros Business Desktop Operating System (OS). The company is attempting to offer Windows based businesses an alternative system for desktop PCs. The company claims the product offers 'seamless compatibility with the latest Windows servers, including domain authentication support, logon scripts, and group policy profiles'.
"We are constantly being asked when the Linux desktop will be ready for enterprise use, and my answer is, 'Now'!,'" said Andreas Typaldos, Xandros CEO. "As a special limited-time offer, Xandros will send a free sample of the new business desktop OS to qualified enterprises seeking a secure, plug-in replacement for their costly Windows desktops so they can see for themselves."
Xandros' Business Desktop comes bundled with a variety of useful programs like Star Office (with Microsoft Office support) and Xandros made Anti-Virus and firewall programs. Notably, it also includes a copy of Skype, a free VoIP program, that has proved highly popular with firms and users alike in the last year. Xandros is part of growing number of Windows alternatives that are slowly turning up the heat. Turning up the heat mind- the fire is still far from spreading, or catching on. Windows still commands a massive usage share (90+%) and currently does not appear to be losing it.
Why? Microsoft PR efforts have proved immensely successful at steering corporate IT buyers away from non-Windows based options. Regardless of whether you believe them or not, a variety of studies have highlighted a potentially painful point - that Linux systems have higher 'post-sale' costs not associated with Windows. Thus, whilst Windows might prove expensive initially, so the argument goes, it does not require the retraining of staff or consultancy services to ensure a new Linux system works efficiently.
However, Xandros have an attractive product well worth investigating. The company has realised that for any product to be successful in this field, it needs to work well with existing Windows systems - something that Xandros claims to do. You can find out more on their website below. Xandros can be bought in the shops or online, for $129.95.
View: Xandros Homepage | Xandros screenshots
