Linux is a Unix-like operating system that's grabbed a lot of media attention recently, due mostly to its reputation as an alternative to Windows. Linux is also a popular example of "open source" software, where the source code is freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute.

The open source model gives Linux some important advantages. A worldwide community of software developers works on the Linux program code, constantly developing updates and bug fixes. It's easy to find free or low-cost versions of Linux, and many people believe that Linux is more secure and reliable than Windows.

Linux is best known as a server operating system, competing against products such as Windows NT Server and Sun Solaris. Linux has become increasingly viable as a desktop alternative to Windows, since it supports a Windows-like interface and can run many Windows or Windows-like applications.

Companies such as Red Hat and SCO sell their own versions of Linux that include technical support, and hardware manufacturers such as Dell and Compaq now preinstall Linux on some of their computers.

Is it time to dump Windows for a Linux desktop system? For most of us, the answer is still "no." The Linux interface has improved, but Windows is better. I still hear from a lot of people who have trouble setting up Linux, especially with nonstandard hardware. And while there's more software than before, business users would have a hard time finding Linux versions of everything they need.

Linux has made some incredible advances in the past year, but it's still primarily for techie types, not business users. Linux-based machines will eventually grab a respectable piece of the desktop market from Microsoft and Apple. The future isn't here yet, however, and business users can't take a chance on systems that might someday deliver what they need. Keep a close eye on Linux, but for now stick with your Windows or Apple desktop systems.

Make sure you understand the distinctions between freeware, shareware, and open source software. If you've gotten interested enough to want to learn more about Linux, start with a primer on networking with Linux to get a sense of how this system is different from Windows.