Editor: Michelle Valley
The history of Microsoft's rivalry with Linux and Steve Ballmer's stance
The rivalry between Microsoft and Linux has deep roots that date back to the beginnings of the internet era. On the one hand, Microsoft, with its Windows operating system dominating the personal computer market, represented proprietary, closed-source software. On the other hand, Linux, a free and open source operating system, defended the philosophy of collaboration and accessibility.
The early years (1990s):
- Microsoft saw Linux as a threat to its market hegemony, and Steve Ballmer, then CEO of the company, did not hesitate to make strong statements against the open source operating system. In 2001, he even called Linux a "cancer" that "must be trampled on."
- Microsoft has also adopted more subtle tactics to combat Linux, such as pressuring hardware manufacturers not to pre-install the system on their computers and spreading misinformation about its capabilities.
2000's:
- Despite Microsoft's efforts, Linux continued to grow in popularity, especially among server and tech-savvy users.
- The Linux community proved resilient and united in the face of Microsoft's attacks, responding with innovation and collaboration.
Posture change:
- Over time, Microsoft began to change its stance on Linux. The company recognized the growing importance of open source software and began collaborating with the Linux community on some projects.
- In 2014, Satya Nadella took over as CEO of Microsoft and marked a new era of cooperation with Linux. The company launched Azure, its cloud computing platform, which supports Linux, and also contributed to the development of the Linux kernel.
Factors that contributed to the change in attitude:
- The rise of Android, a Linux-based mobile operating system, has forced Microsoft to reconsider its stance on open source.
- The growing popularity of cloud technologies, where Linux is predominant, also influenced Microsoft's change in stance.
- Microsoft realized that open source could be an ally, not an enemy, in its quest for innovation and growth.
At the moment:
- Today, the relationship between Microsoft and Linux is one of collaboration, rather than antagonism.
- Microsoft recognizes Linux as an important player in the software market and collaborates with the Linux community on several projects.
- Linux continues to grow in popularity and becomes increasingly relevant in many segments of the technology industry.
Conclusion:
The rivalry between Microsoft and Linux was a landmark chapter in the history of technology. However, over time, Microsoft changed its stance and began to collaborate with the Linux community. This shift demonstrates that open source can be a powerful force for innovation and growth, and that collaboration between different industry players is critical to advancing technology.
Steve Ballmer and his stance:
It is important to point out that Steve Ballmer's statements against Linux were made in a specific context and do not represent Microsoft's current views. The company recognizes the value of open source and the importance of collaboration with the Linux community. 💻👩🏻💻
