Yet, earlier this year, Microsoft repeatedly cited the growth of Linux as proof that Microsoft did not enjoy monopoly control of the operating-system market. E-mail forwarding test Judge Jackson didn't buy that argument. There are no current products that pose a threat to Microsoft Windows, decided Jackson. That's the job of the market. Governments don't break up monopolies, markets do.
Governments create monopolies.
And, as Raymond notes, even if Microsoft ultimately loses the trial, it will appeal, and if it keeps losing, the case will undoubtedly go to the Supreme Court. Other open-source luminaries strike a slightly less libertarian tone, but are still skeptical of government action. I think there is more competition for Microsoft now than there has ever been. Of course, that doesn't mean Microsoft is bound to fail. It wouldn't be the first time that better software has been beaten by better marketing.