Linux Advantages/Disadvantages

Linux’ greatest edge over the other operating systems is undoubtedly its open source and being freely available for anyone. The program source code can literally be used by everybody, and that makes computer usage more cost effective. It really means a lot of savings because you can just imagine how much a license for a Windows or a Mac OS costs. Prices even show that Windows XP Pro costs about $299 for a single user license. Mac OS, meanwhile, costs about $129 for a single user license while $199 for a five-user family pack license. But with Linux, you do not have to spend a single penny. All you have to do is obtain a copy of the software of Linux versions. These are widely distributed all over the world. You may have a friend who has a copy; you can just borrow. You will not mind the thought of software piracy at all. You can even download a version via the Internet. Think about that!

Well, aside from the savings that Linux can bring you, Linux is also said to be more stable according to feedbacks. Because it is an open source, Linux is constantly reviewed and improved. There may be bugs but because it can be modified by many, improvements and updates can be made like lesser bugs and system failures.

Linux has also become a big help to many programmers and developers who have exercised, practiced, and improved their talent and knowledge on programming.

While Linux has become advantageous to many, others also found some weaknesses on the program. One thing is that, like the Mac OS, what is available in Linux is only a limited number of programs and applications due to its small market.

NO. 1 Recommended Website for Advantages and Disadvantages
URL: http://www.mylot.com/w/discussions/1359614.aspx

This website promotes both the two sides of Linux. It first presents the pro’s of the said operating system with enough explanations to support the points of the article. It includes the stability of the OS, the ability that allows it to run on old hardware, security, and the like. In the lower part of the section, meanwhile, the different con’s, or disadvantages, of Linux are then stated. The negative side includes a longer time needed to learn the system, the equivalent programs as already mentioned, and it’s less compatibility to the hardware.

NO. 2 Recommended Website for Advantages and Disadvantages
URL: http://www.szeto.ca/en/linux.htm

The webpage above is a brief article containing an overview of the Linux operating system. It is short but concise and still very insightful. It is entitled the Linux Advantage. It also contains various pieces of information on what Linux basically is. It gives short descriptions on the nature of Linux and its system. Basically, the emphasis really is more on the good side of Linux.

NO. 3 Recommended Website for Advantages and Disadvantages
URL: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Linux

If the previous site talks about the advantages of Linux, This Wikipedia chapter talks about the opposite – the down side of Linux. It is a brief article that talks mainly about the controversies and criticisms Linux has faced throughout its years of operation in the market. It is only a summary if you just want to skim through the page. Nevertheless, it is sure that you can still get the gist of and learn more about the negative side of Linux.


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