The penguin picks up [Linux]

How serious a challenge is the Linux open-source operating system (OS) to Microsoft in IT projects? Linux has come a long way from its technology roots. The stage is set for a battle between proprietary software sold for profit and free open-source software. As many companies question the productivity gains they made from their IT investments, interest in Linux has risen sharply. Emerging economies see it as an affordable way to embrace the benefits of IT. The public sector is taking a closer interest as budgets come under pressure. Microsoft's response has been cautious. It cannot afford to drop its prices across the board. But in places such as Thailand, it is developing limited, lower-priced versions of its most popular software.but Microsoft has noticed.