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26 November 2009

Decision-matrix for choosing between Windows and Linux

Retrieved from - http://weusefoss.sriaurobindoinstitute.org/Decision-matrix+for+choosing+between+Windows+and+Linux&structure=WeUseFOSS

Objective

This page presents a comparison between Windows and linux on various parameters and serves as a basis for making a choice. It also provides a TCO comparison of Windows vs Linux over a 3-year cycle.
Audience
- Decision-makers involved with IT usage in a School, College or SOHO For ex IT administrators, Executive management, Computer Teachers etc
- Anyone interested in a comparison of Microsoft with Linux
Pre-requisites: None

Decision-matrix for choosing between Windows and Linux


Importance

Parameter

Windows

Linux

Very Very High


Cost

  • High license fee

  • High cost of acquisition

  • High cost of maintenance

  • Zero license fee

Very High

Security

  • Very High malware threat-levels

  • Active and high involvement required to manage the threat

  • Minimal threat from malware

  • Localized impact of malware if any

High

Upgrade path

  • Forced upgrade of hardware resources to keep up-to-date

  • No compulsion to upgrade hardware

Medium

Ease of Use

  • High level of user friendliness and familiarity

  • Learning curve for transition of existing users

  • Fewer problems with first-time users especially children/students

Medium

Support

  • Vendor support readily available due to large installation base

  • Have to depend on community support

Cost comparison between Windows and Linux


Using Linux leads to cost reduction by 66%

Over a 3-year cycle, TCO of one computer:

  • using Windows – 46,500 INR
  • using Linux – 15,100 INR

Cost in INR


Windows

Linux


Hardware

25,000

15,000


OS Licensing fee

5,000

0


Office Suite Licensing fee

10,000

0

Cost of Acquisition

Total

40,000

15,000


Anti-virus subscription

5,000

0


Risks

1,000

0


Upgrades/Patches

500

100

Operating Costs

Total

5,600

100

TCO over a 3-year cycle

Total

46,500

15,100

Posted via email from LUG@IITD Community Blog

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