Microsoft may eventually start porting to Linux anyway, but a breakup would likely accelerate things. LWN respectfully begs to differ. The growth curve of Linux shows that competition is indeed possible. Volunteers remain the backbone of much open source development, but, increasingly, free software developers are finding themselves being well paid by companies that see a solid business benefit in free software. Open source has more developers than Microsoft - and this has been true for years.
Free software is an inherently superior product.
It has long since reached the critical mass needed to assure its continued growth and success. That critical mass was achieved not via governmental action, but through the dedication and persistence of people like Richard Stallman, and through the efforts of thousands of free software developers worldwide. Microsoft has spent years building the rope with which it is hanging itself. Announcing the LWN book reviews page . LWN inaugurates its new book reviews page this week.