Linux vs Windows - Conquering a Windows Based World

Linux is making inroads into the future of US military with programs such as the Future Combat System (FSC) and organizations such as DISA and DIA.

The adoption of open source software is increasing however there is not an overriding direction of how it should be accomplished. It is best summed up by Bernard Golden, chief executive officer of Navica, a system integrator.

“The adoption of open source technology is widespread but uneven in the Defense Department.There has clearly been an expanded awareness and penetration of open source. Some groups don’t do it at all, some use it and don’t even know it, and some actually advocate its use“

Some of the reasons that Linux and open source are being adopted within programs inlcude:

• Reduced cost
• Reduced time in which innovations in software can be incorporated into systems
• Security

I have also seen this first hand, where there is not a clear direction on the policy for use of open source software, but more programs and more organizations are adopting it. Open source is now becoming a relied upon and accepted option.