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Linux TCO: Fact Or Fiction?: Page 2 of 2

Basanta says that certain types of companies need to be walked through a new Linux installation, but overall they find it easy to use and administer. "At an SMB shop, there aren't many people designated to learn about the products, so they might need their hands held a bit at first," he says. "In the enterprise, it provides stability, security and ease of use, and most Linux boxes can be put together in about 20 minutes."

Tim Dana, CEO of Q&A Communications, a managed services provider based in Tampa, Fla., says the inherent ease of use, security and cost advantages provided by the Linux-based Astaro security appliance make it the only such device his company uses.

"Now that Linux has begun to mature, a number of companies are bringing a Windows look and feel to the environment, which reduces the complexity," he says. "This allows any engineer who may not know Linux but does know security to manage the devices quickly and effectively, and it gives us the ability to bring new products to market quickly, which is extremely important to VARs."