Need Conversion Reasons for MGT

[Curious George]

I'm not currently a linux user, but obviously I'm interested. We run approximately 250 workstations in about 10 different locatations. We have the typical MS products in use. We have some MS licensing issues that may force either a large capital outlay or a partial conversion to linux. That, combined with the new ideas coming from Redmond WA about leasing software and tight copyright protection have me looking this direction also.

I'm looking for some objective report that gives some positives for converting to linux. I can repeat the reasons I've discovered to various management personnel but it will mean more in print form from an outside source.

Our plan is to have 2 different linux platforms we utilize in the field. I've read some good reviews about the WordPerfect Office suite and we can get government pricing on it that will make it a very cost effective tool. We also are considering switching our domain controllers from NT 4.0 to linux and quit worrying about the CALs.

Any input on distributions would be appreciated. Thanks.

[sans-hubris]

Having the source is nice, even if you can't program. The kernel, for example, provides a nice front-end for customizing it. Network security is getting better and is often tighter than Windows security (it's closing in on the legendary security of Open BSD). As a PDC, I find I have more control over security with Linux than with Windows because I get the inherent security (which, IMO, is better than Windows) that comes with Samba, as well as UNIX/Linux security (setting up quotas is really easy).

In fact, the NSA has started their own distribution of Linux at http://www.nsa.gov/selinux (I have not tried it myself, but it sounds a lot like Open BSD security for Linux).

I myself use Debian, which has the apt system, which makes installing and upgrading of software rather easy (dependencies are automatically solved by the software).