[dundee] Virtualisation - Linux & Microsoft

[gordon dunlop]

Hi All.

Regarding the recent posts about using virtual Linux systems in PC's, 
this is the area where I think Microsoft is getting fearful, thanks to 
Daniel Lamb's posts (hopes he forgives me for being a bit senile). 
Virtualisation technology has taken off in the past year with 51 
different types being offered now, everyone is getting on the 
virtualisation bandwagon, as it offers benefits not only on the server 
but on the desktop, with aim of achieving close to native performance as 
is possible. Intel & AMD are creating more virtualisation instructions 
within their processors. Dell are thinking about putting virtual Linux 
machines on the Vista desktop to increase their share of the market 
(trying to overtake HP). Microsoft charge for their operating systems 
per individual license and Linux is free therefore an individual can run 
as many copies of Linux as their hardware allows rather than incurring 
the cost of multiple Microsoft licenses. I have found that Windows users 
within my family are quite happy to have Linux virtual machines 
installed as it costs nothing and gives them extra Internet security, 
they are not interested in being sole Linux users, but is getting them 
to be familiar with Linux. If this happens a lot for Windows users (90% 
of desktops) then Linux would become more mainstream. I think that if 
you cannot get a Windows person to try Linux as an alternative operating 
system then offer to put a Linux virtual machine (Daniel recommends 
qemu, what do others think?) in their Windows system then they will 
become more familiar with Linux. These are some of my thoughts, if you 
think that I am on the wrong track let me know.

Gordon