That versatility likewise extends to low-powered machines. For example, computers considered too slow and weak to run Windows 2000, and even Windows 95, can run Linux. There are gating factors to consider with respect to Linux, the first being that it still caters to the technically savvy. It helps to have a Unix background. But Whitmore said Linux is getting easier, especially with new tools for installing the software.
Application development is another issue.
It takes a lot more elbow grease to develop applications for Linux. Other technical considerations include Linux's lack of support for high-powered, multiprocessor server machines and its weak filing system that can corrupt data. Both issues are slated to be addressed in the next kernel due this year. The desktop version of Linux also is a couple of years behind Microsoft, according to observers. Even though Sun Microsystems's StarOffice, Corel's WordPerfect Office and ApplixWare offer application packages similar to Microsoft's Office, the cost of switching can be a limiting factor.