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Nooze2k · 07-12-2003, 08:31 PM

I think this thread has gotten a bit off track. It's turned into the differences between MS Windows, and other OS's such as Linux, OS X, etc. I think Microsoft is a ruthless corporation in the purest sense, but like others have said, thats what it takes to make it in the industry. In my personal opinion, they don't get enough credit in one critical aspect of the IT industry, and thats keeping things uniform. This applies to most of the IT industry, and in the end only benefits almost all users and developers alike.

APIs like DirectX ensure cross-compatibility between PCs, also making development easier, faster, and more efficient. Of related note is how this effects console gaming as well. It is common knowledge that the X-Box was developed using DirectX compatible hardware. As such, future versions of the X-Box hardware (XBox2, X-Box Next, etc etc), if so desired could be designed for backwards compatibility with the old X-Box, and quite easily so, unlike the PS2 which has a multitude of processors to handle both PS2 and PSX games. This benefits not only the developer, but also the user as older games can benefit greatly in the enhanced hardware, much like upgrading hardware on a PC helps. (so you can argue that the X-Box is really just a PC in a small box, but in many ways thats not a bad thing)

Microsoft has always tried to get PC's into the mainstream market, and they have done that tenfold. Yes, they are a monopoly in many ways. However, one can argue that this isn't always a bad thing, as it make things easier for the consumer (one of the main reasons that Linux isn't picking up at lightspeed like many of us would like.)

Getting off-track once again myself, yes I do use Linux on a regular basis, and I love it. I love how customizable it is, how I can change any setting without worrying about the MS and RIAA police knocking on my door. But thats what Linux is for. However because Linux is Opensource, it may never become as wide spread as Windows is. There are too many different versions out there, and elements such as drivers and software/hardware compatibilty isn't up to par as Windows is... plus, Linux simply isn't as easy to use as Windows for the common user..... yet. Some day, it may be, but that time isn't now. Like stated before, most of the developers contributing to it and the open-source movement are doing it just to get recognized and get a paying job in the industry. Just trying to make a living and start out somewhere... like Microsoft did years ago.

07-12-2003, 08:31 PM	#48 (permalink)
Nooze2k Tilted Location: Ontario, Canada	I think this thread has gotten a bit off track. It's turned into the differences between MS Windows, and other OS's such as Linux, OS X, etc. I think Microsoft is a ruthless corporation in the purest sense, but like others have said, thats what it takes to make it in the industry. In my personal opinion, they don't get enough credit in one critical aspect of the IT industry, and thats keeping things uniform. This applies to most of the IT industry, and in the end only benefits almost all users and developers alike. APIs like DirectX ensure cross-compatibility between PCs, also making development easier, faster, and more efficient. Of related note is how this effects console gaming as well. It is common knowledge that the X-Box was developed using DirectX compatible hardware. As such, future versions of the X-Box hardware (XBox2, X-Box Next, etc etc), if so desired could be designed for backwards compatibility with the old X-Box, and quite easily so, unlike the PS2 which has a multitude of processors to handle both PS2 and PSX games. This benefits not only the developer, but also the user as older games can benefit greatly in the enhanced hardware, much like upgrading hardware on a PC helps. (so you can argue that the X-Box is really just a PC in a small box, but in many ways thats not a bad thing) Microsoft has always tried to get PC's into the mainstream market, and they have done that tenfold. Yes, they are a monopoly in many ways. However, one can argue that this isn't always a bad thing, as it make things easier for the consumer (one of the main reasons that Linux isn't picking up at lightspeed like many of us would like.) Getting off-track once again myself, yes I do use Linux on a regular basis, and I love it. I love how customizable it is, how I can change any setting without worrying about the MS and RIAA police knocking on my door. But thats what Linux is for. However because Linux is Opensource, it may never become as wide spread as Windows is. There are too many different versions out there, and elements such as drivers and software/hardware compatibilty isn't up to par as Windows is... plus, Linux simply isn't as easy to use as Windows for the common user..... yet. Some day, it may be, but that time isn't now. Like stated before, most of the developers contributing to it and the open-source movement are doing it just to get recognized and get a paying job in the industry. Just trying to make a living and start out somewhere... like Microsoft did years ago. __________________ " Can't keep my eyes from the circling skies, Tongue-tied and twisted just an earth-bound misfit, I "