Commercial aspects of linux...

[vraval]

Hi ALL!

I am new to GNU/Linux and would like to know about its commercial aspects.

Is GNU/Linux for using/promoting FREE/OPEN SOURCE software only?

Is learning Linux development good for entrepreneurs or for those who seek a 'DECENT JOB'?

Please help...

[tvilkov]

I assume linux being open source and free, you can use it for commercial purposes, like creating graphics or making music etc. You don't need licences (aint that awesome!) etc etc.

[techieMoe]

Hi ALL!

I am new to GNU/Linux and would like to know about its commercial aspects.

Is GNU/Linux for using/promoting FREE/OPEN SOURCE software only?

I have not the foggiest idea what you're asking. The vast majority of Linux distributions are free of charge and have no restrictions on usage at all. You can (for instance) download Ubuntu, make 200 copies and sell the CDs for whatever price you like, or use your copies to start a business. There are no real restrictions on the number or manner by which you use it.

There are a handful (less than a dozen) of Linux distributions that charge, such as Xandros and Linspire. Your rights as far as using those distributions depend strictly on the licensing agreements those distributions give.

You can use any type of software, open or closed-source, on Linux. The trick is just if you can get it to run. Some people even use special wrapper software to run applications and games designed for Microsoft Windows in Linux, with varying degrees of success.

In short, I don't know what you were asking, but perhaps that answers some of it?

Is learning Linux development good for entrepreneurs or for those who seek a 'DECENT JOB'?

What do you consider a "decent job"? Any kind of development experience will be valuable to a prospective employer, regardless of the language or platform. I received my Bachelor's in Computer Science using primarily Linux for my development platform and then immediately got a well-paying job writing Java code in Microsoft Windows. Dev experience is dev experience; the more you have the better.

[vraval]

Hi techieMoe,

Many thanks for the reply.

I had these questions in my mind because of the fact that if GNU/Linux is free then why are so many people using Windows at all? If it is for the 'easy to use' factor, then I think Linux will lead windows in no time as it is becoming more and more user friendly.

Have a Nice Day!

[techieMoe]

Hi techieMoe,

Many thanks for the reply.

I had these questions in my mind because of the fact that if GNU/Linux is free then why are so many people using Windows at all?

Well, obviously there's a lot more to it than just price. There are a number of other things keeping folks using MS Windows. Probably one of the most common is ignorance; people just aren't aware there are other choices out there.