Over the last four years, Linux has established itself as the fastest growing server platform for enterprise Information Technology. As the server platform grows the desktop platform is also growing, domestically and abroad. One of the areas most lacking information, however, is in the capability of Linux as a desktop replacement for a Microsoft Windows dominated enterprise. Linux Business Desktop Migration for Windows Users explores the advantages of Linux as a desktop platform as well as the possible pitfalls associated with a Linux migration. The goal is to make the leap with as little disruption as possible and realize tangible benefits in the end. In order to make this possible, the book focuses on four main points: Teaching the factors involved in a Windows to Linux migration, including how to form an overall IT strategy for a company with an established Windows user base; Explaining data migration and how to move data from a Windows installation (Office documents, address books, etc.) to a Linux desktop; Improving the existing application migration from Windows to Linux; and Providing end user instruction, including tactics to get the most of the Linux desktop with consideration given to users’ existing Windows knowledge. Unlike other books on the topic, Linux Business Desktop Migration for Windows Users discusses both the strategy of why Windows users would use Linux and how to actually use the Linux operating system, providing a complete beginning to end guide for moving your business over to Linux.

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Average Amazon.com® Rating:  Based on 3 Ratings

Strategies and Information for Linux Migrations - 2006-03-08
Reviewer Rating:
If you're considering a move to Linux for all or part of your computing needs, then Windows to Linux Business Desktop Migration is a welcome reference. After reading it, you will have a better understanding of your computing needs and how that translates to existing Linux solutions. In addition, you will be able to make informed decisions regarding Linux migration strategies and conduct additional, focused research as needed.

"Would't it be nice to be the only lemonade vendor in the middle of the desert," asks Hinkle. Obviously, the lemonade vendor in question is Microsoft, and if you are considering this book, then you realize vendor lock-in is a costly proposition. The book outlines the business case for Windows to Linux migration by emphasizing the cost savings, openness, and flexibility of Linux; however, Hinkle tempers his advocacy by addressing the reasons why some businesses should wait before moving individual services to Linux. In fact, the many ways Linux and Windows can exist in a heterogeneous network is an enlightening aspect of the book.

Hinkle's task is tough, but in the opening three chapters he gives a thorough analysis of the Windows to Linux migration process. As a result, you end up with a checklist of items that will help you successfully migrate to Linux, as well as guidance to help you determine what functions to move to Linux and when to move them.

The remaining chapters discuss deployment and support considerations for the actual migration. You will not find a step-by-step guide to installing and using software, but you will find a well versed overview of applications, Linux distributions, remote display technologies, and thin client computing. Hinkle clears the information gathering hurdle by providing an impressive collection of software reviews, including practical uses. He easily saves unfamiliar Linux users a hundred hours or more in research and analysis.

The Knoppix Live CD included with the book is an invaluable, low-risk tool to explore Linux. Many of the topics and software introduced throughout the book can be immediately tried by booting the Knoppix CD, which requires no changes to your system. The Knoppix Live CD itself is a testament to the power of Linux, and with Hinkle's guidance you know where to look for that power.

Something You Really Should Start Thinking About - 2006-03-11
Reviewer Rating:
Sooner or later you have to be thinking about moving Linux to the business desktop. The factors of software cost, of reliability, of virus protection have become so powerful that you have to at least think about it a little. You probably haven't done anything about it yet, but maybe it's time for a little investigation.

This book is an excellent place to start, and for two reasons.

First, you probably haven't started to play with Linus yet. You have your PC on your desk, it's (finally) working the way you want, you don't want to go put Linux on it and screw everything up. Solution: the CD included with this book has Linux on it in a version that will run off of the CD. You can start playing with Linux on your own desktop without screwing it up.

Second, the writer is oriented to thinking like managers. He discusses such things as the true cost of ownership. What does a visit from tech support really cost? What about the cost of a hit from a virus that puts your call center down? He talks about Linux, not as a teckie, but as a manager who really is concerned about his people getting some use out of their PC's.

This is a good place to at least start your thinking.

Migration patterns explained - 2006-04-13
Reviewer Rating:
Mark R. Hinkle's WINDOWS TO LINUX BUSINESS DESKTOP MIGRATION compares the potentials of Linux as a desktop operating system, contrasting the more common MS Windows operating environment and exploring how Linux holds advantages as a desktop program as well. Readers learn how a migration between the two is achieved and how IT managers can customize and devise strategies for strategic management of critical information, and receive discussions which focus on how Windows users would implement the Linux operating system.

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