Give the Gift of Linux for the Holidays

By Jim on December 21st, 2009

There’s absolutely no denying that we’re in a terrible economy right now. Unemployment is way up over the last year and consumer spending is down significantly. So what’s a person to do for Christmas gifts this year? Instead of stuffing your loved ones’ stockings with fat-laden candy or silly doodads made in China, you should consider giving the best present of all: the gift of Linux!

Why Linux?

Unlike Windows and Mac OS X, which cost money and offer (with some minor exceptions) only one set of features and capabilities for all users, Linux is free and comes in many different flavors. Regardless of what the person on your list likes to do, you’ll almost certainly be able to find the perfect distro for him or her. And if you can’t, you can probably roll your own—try doing that with Windows.

Do Steve Ballmer or Steve Jobs really need any more money? I think not. Rather than giving Microsoft or Apple any of your money during these frugal days, keep your cash and go with Linux instead.

Which Distro?

Which desktop distribution you pick depends entirely on whom you’re giving it to. I’ve broken down some ideas into a few categories of user to help you. Not everyone will fit into one of these categories, but they’re good places to start. If you’d rather just browse around, visit Distrowatch.

Why Linux?
Unlike Windows and Mac OS X, which cost money and offer (with some minor exceptions) only one set of features and capabilities for all users, Linux is free and comes in many different flavors. Regardless of what the person on your list likes to do, you’ll almost certainly be able to find the perfect distro for him or her. And if you can’t, you can probably roll your own—try doing that with Windows.

Do Steve Ballmer or Steve Jobs really need any more money? I think not. Rather than giving Microsoft or Apple any of your money during these frugal days, keep your cash and go with Linux instead.

Which Distro?
Which desktop distribution you pick depends entirely on whom you’re giving it to. I’ve broken down some ideas into a few categories of user to help you. Not everyone will fit into one of these categories, but they’re good places to start. If you’d rather just browse around, visit Distrowatch.

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