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

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