A Sad Farewell to Linux
Posted on February 24, 2008 by Ben Cecka
It is with much regret that I must part ways with my vision for integrating Linux into the desktop and non-web server environment at work. A man much wiser than me explained that there are 3 factors to consider when making technology investments (it actually works in a much broader sense as well). The Powers That Be are going to be looking to get things done 1) quickly, 2) cheaply, and 3) right. Now, as the IT Director I’m only allowed to pick two elements from the list and toss the 3rd aside. Play with it in your head - it’s fun.
Assuming that we all want to get our security overhaul done right, I’m left with the choices of either doing it quickly at a high price, or cheaply with a longer rollout. In the case of the project I’m faced with for PCI compliance, time is of the utmost importance. As such, I can either succumb to the pressure and use Windows servers for easy domain authentication and VPN tunneling, or go with my preferred route of Linux and the equivalents. My basic assessment of Windows is that while it’s fairly intuitive to setup and configure, it can be a real bear to maintain. Linux, on the other hand, takes more time to get running (especially when working in unfamiliar waters) but is relatively stable when compared to Redmond’s offering.
Unfortunately, because I don’t have that time to work with, I’m building my budget around Microsoft. Now, the possibility that our company scoffs at the cost is likely, which is why I’m also building its equal with Linux but with a much longer lead time.
So, it is with great disdain, that I temporarily bid Linux adieu.
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Companies that demand short-term solutions are eating their own tail.
I can certainly agree with that. At least, demanding a short-term solution on a regular basis and expecting to get a good deal in the end. Being in the SMB sector we’re often left to react to larger players on their terms — not ours. There’s a Catch-22 in there somewhere.