| Software |
| China’s New Found Love of Linux |
| by Autumn Leigh |
| Is China moving to Linux, and why? |
One of the most prolific problems China has had to face, not only in it’s own country, but abroad as well, has been with the issue of intellectual property rights. It was estimated that in 2004, 87% of Chinese computers were infected with viruses or worms. Many of these infections were caused or related to the fact that much of the software was originally pirated; the most pirated software in China is Microsoft. And because the software was pirated, Microsoft virus protection and updates are unavailable.
Although, China has taken, at least to the international community, a staunch stance against pirated software they have also turned to the use and promotion of Linux software as one way to combat this problem. Currently, Linux software only accounts for a small percentage of operating systems used in China but the growing number of systems utilizing Linux is expanding every year. Linux saw a 36% increase of server licenses sold to Asia in 2004 and the expectation for 2005 is even higher.
So what brought on this love of Linux? Well, like any other Chinese situation, there isn’t one easy answer. One point of contention with the Chinese and Microsoft is the lack of visibility to Window's source code - the blueprint for the operating system.
Enabling individuals to have access to a program’s source code offers several advantages. For example, the code can be modified in order to provide better security. This is the reason that many providences in China are electing Linux software for defense purposes. Using the same line of thought, China, also touts that it is skeptical of any company that would provide software but would not give them access to the source code. This practice is met with much distrust, and this lack of access is seen as a potential security risk.
Critics debate whether this is a valid argument or more of a ruse to cover up the real reason why China and many other developing countries are flocking to install Linux every where from schools to military instillations. And the reason can be summed in one little bundle-cost. Linux can be downloaded free from the internet. Users forego licensing agreements, long term contracts and initial set up fees. And many governments are seeing the benefits accrue yearly as the need to provide computer software for an ever abundant population grows coupled with race to keep pace with the technological advances of the day.
Although most of large scale projects involving Linux are taking place in China, other countries are jumping on the low cost band wagon too. Taiwan has made a major decision to install the software in all government offices and schools. India has also incorporated Linux as part of their over all technological infrastructure strategy. Even Japan, one of the most technologically advanced nations in the world is dabbling in Linux on a small scale. Interestingly enough, many developed countries and areas such as Hong Kong, are not as enthusiastic to exchange their Microsoft for Linux; many of these well established businesses have loyal venders and deeply integrated systems. And even if the price is enticing many IT professionals know the time and money associated with any major software change.
With all this said, China is still running into major problems with their now choice of software. Right now, they face a shortage of trained Linux professionals. Like most of the world, many of the Chinese computer techs are Microsoft trained. Depending on the version, Linux can be much more limited in its capabilities. Microsoft is also easier to install, and for those familiar with it, easier to maintain. Also, various games and many internet functions, such as Internet Explorer only online services, are only supported by Microsoft systems.
Only time will tell how China will fare from this technological turmoil. But one thing is for certain. We shouldn’t under estimate their desire or sheer will to make this work.
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