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GNU/Linux, IBM, Intel. Together. A Barber Shop Harmony?

Submitted by Wonko The Sane on 23 January, 2004 - 02:20.

Dana Blankenhorn talks about Intel's IP, and makes a good case for a future for GNU/Linux:

...This is important stuff. While IBM is pushing Linux as the open system for computing, Intel is now pushing Linux as the open system for communications, alongside IP.

Linux solves two problems.

First, its kernel is robust, scalable, and modular, so you can build applications on it that are, in essence, bullet-proof. (And if you're going to build applications-on-applications, as we are in communications, you need something bullet-proof in the core.)

Second, the business model for Linux is ready for Always-On. Software that works can fall in price toward zero, while people continue paying for service and support on the new stuff. You don't get that with Windows or Windows applications -- you're constantly paying for what you thought you bought before...

This sort of clarifies why Intel's backing GNU/Linux. What's more, it gives us a peek into what large corporations are seeing in their fiscal balls.

I agree with Dana. In fact, if the 'Always On' concept gets off the ground (and with this much money behind it, who doubts it?), the PC will become the home server - which IBM is quite willing to help the world with. And everything else Intel. Intriguing.

But I wonder if Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) will make it all more cost effective.

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