BW does an in-depth profile of Linux including online photo essay, slideshows and several articles: “Linux, inc“, “Where’s Linux?”, “How To Profit From Free Software”, “How Linux Inc. Works”.
IDC predicts Linux’ market share based on unit sales will rise from 24% today to 33% in 2007, compared with 59% for Windows — essentially keeping Microsoft at its current market share for the next three years and squeezing its profit margins. That’s because, for the first time, Linux is taking a bite out of Windows, not just the other alternatives, and is forcing Microsoft to offer discounts to avoid losing sales. In a survey of business users by Forrester Research Inc. (FORR ), 52% said they are now replacing Windows servers with Linux. On the desktop side, IDC sees Linux’ share more than doubling, from 3% today to 6% in 2007, while Windows loses a bit of ground. IDC expects the total market for Linux devices and software to jump from $11 billion last year to $35.7 billion by 2008.
Aaron Fulkerson 