Small enterprises larger than 20 employees often take advantage of Linux or UNIX, in addition to the typical Windows deployments. Where a desired application will run on a range of operating systems, the IT leader must determine which server OS will better meet each application's needs. This decision process begins by examining three criteria:
- Technical features.
- Licensing features.
- Interoperability.
This note will discuss key criteria involved when determining the technical, licensing, and interoperability suitability of a prospective server OS. A second decision, whether the prospective OS meets business needs (primarily TCO considerations) is the subject of a forthcoming companion note.
