Microsoft's first listed "Top Knowledgebase Article" on technet

[Kevin Brown]

OK, followed that link.  Yep, read that page when we had to order some servers 
that are coming configured with RH AS2.1.  Went to the link for the laptops and 
Linux (RH or otherwise) is not listed as a choice for OS.

This was a very interesting link:
http://www.dell.com/us/en/biz/services/service_cfiClientSoftwareIntegration.htm

Shows they don't know what they are saying (linux 6.2 and 7.0).  I remember 
seeing Linux as a choice some time ago but they were charging more for the exact 
same system with Linux instead of Windows.  Means I would have saved money by 
buying it with M$ bundled and installing RH myself.

>>I refuse to buy the prebuilt systems from Dell because I have no 
>>choice, but to 
>>pay that fee for M$ office.  I don't mind paying for things I want or will use, 
>>but to have something forced on me and charged for it is outrageous.
> 
> 
> Hmmm...
> 
> I dont think this is true.  You can buy Dell hardware factory installed
> with GNU/Linux.
> 
> http://www.dell.com/us/en/biz/topics/linux_000_products.htm
> 
> Also, for nearly all high end server's they offer you can get with
> GNU/Linux or without any operating system at all.
> 
> I am not a huge Dell fan, but I think we need to hold to facts when
> fighting the enemy.  If you say, you can't buy a Dell pre-built system
> running Windows without office that very well maybe true.  However, I
> would argue that if you are paying the Microsoft tax, what is a few more
> dollars to really sink your butt into their lockin?
> 
> You can buy a Dell GNU/Linux system without office though, so Dell isnt
> forcing you into any proposition with the beast best I can tell.