If you're currently running proprietary, RISC-based UNIX, now may be the time to take a serious look at Linux. The two operating systems have a lot in common, but Linux offers clear advantages such as more support from enterprise software and low-cost hardware vendors.

Before you make the decision to upgrade to another version of Windows, be sure to compare it carefully to Linux. In many ways, the open source alternative is more secure, more affordable and more reliable.