Windows Cheaper Than Linux in Long Run: Microsoft Veep

Tokyo, Oct. 3 (Jiji Press)–Senior Microsoft Corp. official Kevin Johnson said Friday the company’s Windows operating system is less costly to use than the Linux in the long run.

The total cost of using Windows in a five-year period is about 11 to 22 pct lower than using the Linux, he told a press conference, referring to data from a U.S. research company.

Johnson, group vice president of Microsoft’s Worldwide Sales, Marketing and Services Group, stressed the advantages of Windows as many Japanese companies and government institutions are introducing Linux.

Experts say system development using the Linux is cheaper. They also say Linux-based systems are less vulnerable to computer viruses and can be modified easily because the open-source OS is free from copyright.

Johnson argued that the Linux has vulnerabilities to computer viruses as well, and emphasized Microsoft’s efforts to improve security.

Johnson said he hopes Microsoft’s business opportunities will increase in Japan due to the nation’s economic recovery, e- government programs and growing number of broadband Internet access users.