Microsoft Locks Horns with Open-Source Software Providers

In response to increased competition, Microsoft has been working to reduce the use of open-source software such as Linux in every way it can.

Some government agencies have already cut costs considerably by using Linux, and open-source is becoming more popular with both business and government. Increasing use of Linux in school computer labs and administrative offices is also creating serious competition for Microsoft, as many institutions discover they can cut costs in half by migrating to open-source servers and software.

In addition to offering cost savings, RedHat Linux is making its products even more attractive by offering software and free technical support to schools.

To counter these incursions, Microsoft has stepped up the pressure on both government and school districts:

• In May, the Washington Post reported an aggressive lobbying effort launched by Microsoft to ban open-source use by the Pentagon ("Open-Source Fight Flares at Pentagon," by Jonathan Krim, May 23, 2002, Page E01; if you're a subscriber, you may access this article online by searching the Washington Post archives at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-adv/archives/ ).
  
• In another recent action, Microsoft threatened to audit 24 of the largest K-12 school districts in the Northwest " to certify license compliance." (See Slashdot posting "Microsoft vs. Northwest Schools Part III" at
  http://slashdot.org/articles/02/05/21/196252.shtml?tid=146 )