Basically, anyone can work on a bit of the system as long as any new code is also kept public, and programs are either free or available for a nominal sum. Of course, this is at odds with the greedy world of big software and hardware companies, profits, initial public offerings and acquisitions. That's what makes Linux's rise and rise one of technology's most curious tales. It's as if a small-town community football team suddenly found itself in Old Trafford with every prospect of beating Man United. At last count, more than 145 sources offered a version of Linux.
People are no longer beholden to their vendor.
Analysts agree that Red Hat fuelled Linux's success after it drew much-publicised investments from Intel and Netscape a year and a half ago. The Intel stake in particular raised eyebrows, since Linux is seen increasingly as a growing threat to Microsoft's domination in the OS market with Windows, and Intel and Microsoft had been partners for years. Linux suddenly had the friends in high places needed to get a firm foothold in the corporate marketplace, and software and hardware players practically stumbled over themselves to bring out a Linux product. Corel, Oracle, SAP, Compaq, Dell, IBM, Applix, Informix and Computer Associates all support Linux. The stellar roster of support in turn spurred investor fever and at the end of last year, tiny Linux-based companies saw their valuations head into the ozone when they went public.