When asked in an InformationWeek Q&A how Linux compares with Windows, Torvalds didn't go into a marketing discussion of Feature Y over Feature X. Instead, he discussed the strength of Linux's process/approach over Windows' "We are Microsoft--trust us to be your god" approach:

"You can make a general donation online, using the form below if you have a credit card or a PayPal account. Or make a directed donation for a specific fund..."

The One Laptop per Child project’s “Give One, Get One” program has been extended through Dec. 31 as donations averaged about $2 million a day. On that pace, the OLPC should move about 490,000 units by the end of the year. Does that make the effort a success?

Ok, here's something that's been going through my mind lately and I think it needs to be brought to the forefront, just like some of the other topics I've mentioned lately, such as my Distro Implosion article. But this time, instead of discussing the state of Linux distribution lists and distros in general, I think we need to discuss standardization. Yes, that dreaded word.

The creator of Linux is excited about solid-state drives, expects progress in graphics and wireless networking, and says the operating system is strong in virtualization despite his personal lack of interest in the area.

"I've only just come across this, perhaps the best summary of why using Flash is the wrong way to create Web apps..."

I'm not doomsaying here by any means. Just opening a channel for discussion based upon some observations of mine about the current state of Linux in general. So please don't panic while reading this. I want to try and inform through this article in hopes of generating discussion rather than causing a panic. So please be aware of that.

When it comes to FOSS, or Free Open Source Software, the general conception is that it’s available at absolutely no cost to you. But is it really? That depends on a lot of things actually.