It’s been a few weeks since Windows 10 was unleashed on the world. So far there doesn’t seem to be a clear consensus whether it’s a must-have or not. Whatever the case, it’s got people thinking Microsoft again. Since we talked about agent desktops last week, it seems like a good time to continue the discussion in regards to operating systems.
Today, we’ll be discussing two contenders in general terms: Windows and Linux. For Linux, I’ll assume a desktop-oriented distribution such as Ubuntu. In terms of Windows, really any recent version can be considered (Windows 7 and up).
Of course, cost can be part of the discussion. Often times, the OS is built into the price of the system, so there may not be a discount for going with a free OS. Even if not, the additional cost of supporting a different system may outweigh the additional cost. Just keep that in mind. If all else were equal, you should be able to equip a desktop with a free Linux desktop OS for less money.
Linux Desktops
There are a few arguments in favour of Linux desktops, and a few against. Let’s start with the pro case:
- Cost. We’ve already touched on this, but Linux desktop systems are usually free. You can purchase support for some distributions, but something like Ubuntu is both widely used and free to install/use/update. I’ve been using free Linux/Unix desktop software for almost two decades. The free part isn’t going away due to the way the software itself is licensed.
- Usability. Some people are surprised at how usable Linux desktops are. Yes, back in the early days you had to do some crazy stuff to get things to work, but the same held true of Windows as well. From the agent perspective, you need a browser and possibly a softphone to get working. Linux supports the two leading browsers, Firefox and Chrome.
- Easier upgrade path. If you want to keep your software up to date, or even upgrade to the next revision, it’s simple to do in Linux. On Ubuntu, for instance, you can script your updates, or have it automatically update, or log in remotely and do it. If you’re using Long Term Support versions, then shortly after a new one is released, you’ll have the option of upgrading via a provided upgrade tool.
- Agents will be less familiar with the back end. Odds are that any software your agents try to load onto the desktop will be Windows-based. Unless you’ve installed a windows emulator, it won’t run under Windows. There are also fewer viruses and attack vectors for Linux desktops.
- Easy admin access. Linux was built for servers, so there are several options for administering systems remotely. The desktop is no different. While screen sharing software can be used, just like on Windows, having the ability to use a secure shell to log in and make changes while the agent is working can be useful.
- Quick install. I know Windows installation has gotten better in the last decade, but with Linux you can use network boot, or even install the software remotely. Using the CD/DVD method, you can install and have a fully updated system running in less than an hour. I usually spend several hours running Windows update and rebooting for various settings with Windows. Not so with Linux.
Now to the downsides:
- Fewer options for softphones. Several popular softphones such as Bria and Zoiper support Linux. A lot of them don’t, though, so you are restricted in your choices.
- Lack of familiarity. If you’re primarily a Windows shop and don’t have a lot of experience with Linux, it’s probably not worth installing 100 agent machines that you won’t be able to support.
Windows Desktops
The pros:
- There are a larger number of software options. There are more softphones. There are more options for productivity software. You can get software from a wider source.
- Better hardware support? I’m putting a question mark there, because for new hardware, Windows may be better. For older hardware, drivers may not be available but may be for Linux. There’s a scanner here in the office that only works on Linux desktops now, because nobody has a version of Windows old enough to use the supplied (or Windows) drivers. However, manufacturers put the emphasis on working with Windows first.
- Familiarity. A near-monopoly on desktop operating systems for nearly three decades mean that a lot of people know how to use Windows.
The cons:
- Cost. Windows is proprietary, paid for software.
- Malware. Unpatched Windows desktops are highly sought after and quickly targeted by hacking rings and viruses. Your agents can more easily introduce a virus to your network on Windows due to the sheer number of attack vectors.
The Winner
You. Isn’t it great you have these options?
Ultimately the choice is up to you. Of course. But if you’ve never considered the Linux desktop as an option for your agent systems, you really should.