John,

>I used to work with HP-UX. The last version I worked with was 9.0. That goes back a few years. The issue with Linux - you reference - a lack of applications. Why did OS/2 flop? - A lack of apps. I don't see companies making a big investment in linux-based applications.

I agree...on the desktop. Applications don't matter on the server. As long as Linux can serve up files, printers, and web content, what else does a basic server really need to do?

As far as Linux "flopping"...don't really see how that can happen since development would continue on it even if every commercial vendor gave up (which isn't likely since IBM is pumping millions in Linux development).

>With free - you get what you pay for. I don't buy into the whole open-source communal environment that is Linux. If a product is not adaquately supported - the perceived great TCO may be just a mirage..

Ah, the classic argument. Good for you, and we will simply have to agree to disagree.

>It has been a long time since I have worked with Unix. I come from the position of looking at how pervasive Windows is..

Sooo, no matter what alternative OS comes along (and whether or not your experience with that alternate OS is recent), Windows will always win and will always be the best business decision because it is pervasive? Please clarify this for me, as it doesn't sound quite logical...

JoeK