. . . a continuation of our Open Source Desktop Application series. Let’s face it; most of us have heard of the Linux operating system, but maybe do not fully understand what it is and how it is being used in everyday life. At the core, Linux is just another operating system much like Microsoft Windows, but freely available via the Open Source community. It is available in many different flavors, or distributions, and can be used on desktops, laptops, tablets, servers, mobile devices, and video game consoles – to name a few. In fact, many of us use a device that is based on Linux on a daily basis – Android powered mobile phones and tablets are a common example. It is also utilized in some of the largest corporations in the world and is the core of the migration to the “Cloud.” Companies such as Amazon, Google, and IBM are powered by Linux. In fact, Linux is the leading server operating system, and runs the 10 fastest supercomputers in the world!

Linux is gaining ground in the end-user market as well with over 12 Million Ubuntu Linux (http://www.ubuntu.com) users. We are part of this number as we have been running Ubuntu Linux on our laptops for many years. The Graphical User Interface (GUI) has developed into a great rival to Windows and the plethora of free and open source applications make it even more attractive. Furthermore, you can try it for free and without ditching Windows. Most Linux distributions come with what is referred to as a “Live” CD, which means you can download and create a bootable CD that will let you experience the full functionality of Linux. And when you are done? Just reboot and you will be back into Windows!

So why are we telling you all of this? Because at Layered Systems we base many of our enterprise solutions on a Linux foundation. We believe that you cannot beat the reliability, flexibility, and stability of a solution built on Linux, plus there is the cost benefit as well! All of our hosted cloud solutions are built on a Linux foundation, as well as in-house enterprise replacements for Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft IIS, Phone Systems, and many more. We are not trying to say that Microsoft, or any other proprietary solution, is not a valid and viable option, rather we are saying that Linux may be a viable option as well. Please feel free to contact us to learn more about our hosted and in-house technology solutions. We understand technology so you don’t have to!

Contact – sales@layered-systems-7e23a.ingress-florina.easywp.com or (800) 557-0663.